PECAN TURTLE CLUSTERS IN CHOCOLATE

Components:

1. One cup of pecan halves
2. One cup of softened caramel candies
3. For a creamier caramel, you can add two teaspoons of heavy cream.
4. One cup of chocolate chips that are semi-sweet
5. One teaspoon of optional vanilla extract
6. Sea salt (as a garnish)

Directions:

Get the pecan base ready:

• Set the oven temperature to 175°C (350°F).
• Line a baking sheet with the pecan halves and toast for 8 to 10 minutes, or until aromatic. Allow them to cool.

Melt the caramel.

• Put the heavy cream (if using) and the caramel candies in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until smooth and melted.

Put the Clusters Together:

• Put parchment paper on a baking pan.
• Place a spoonful of roasted pecans in little clusters on the parchment paper.
• Over each cluster of pecans, drizzle or spoon molten caramel.

Melt the chocolate.

• Melt the chocolate chips in a bowl that is safe to use in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until they are smooth.
• If desired, stir in the vanilla extract.

Add chocolate on top:

• Cover the caramel-topped pecan clusters well with melted chocolate using a spoon.

Relax and Set:

• To ensure the chocolate is completely set, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for approximately half an hour.

Serve:

• Take it out of the refrigerator after it’s set. Before serving, sprinkle some sea salt on top if you’d like.

Savor your handcrafted clusters of chocolate pecan turtles! Any occasion would benefit greatly from these treats.