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.