Why You’ll Love These Turtle Candies

Turtle candies, or Tortugas de Nuez, are a classic sweet treat combining toasted pecans, soft caramel, and smooth chocolate. Originally inspired by American confections, these candies are perfect for the holiday season, gift-giving, or simply indulging in a homemade delight. Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, providing a subtle crunch and buttery flavor. The caramel adds a sweet, chewy layer, while the chocolate coating balances flavors and brings a silky texture. These candies are simple to make with minimal ingredients, allowing even novice bakers to create a visually appealing and delicious treat.

Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Pecans: Loaded with antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, pecans provide texture, flavor, and nutrition. Toasting them enhances their natural oils and brings out a richer, nuttier aroma.
• Caramel: Made from soft candies and cream, it creates a smooth, chewy layer that binds the nuts together. The natural sweetness complements the chocolate perfectly.
• Chocolate: Semisweet, milk, or even white chocolate can be used. Chocolate adds richness, antioxidants, and a smooth finish to these candies. Adding a small amount of oil ensures a glossy, easy-to-pour coating.
• Optional toppings: Sea salt or drizzled white chocolate enhances flavor contrast and presentation, elevating the homemade candies to a professional look.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Turtle Candies

1. Even nut clusters: Group 3–4 pecan halves per candy to ensure balance between nut, caramel, and chocolate.
2. Temperature control: Let caramel cool slightly before pouring over nuts to prevent it from running too much, yet keep it pliable for a chewy texture.
3. Chocolate melting: Melt chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent burning. Use vegetable or coconut oil for smoother consistency.
4. Storage: Store candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
5. Creative variations: Substitute pecans with almonds, add peanut butter layers, or create a keto version with sugar-free chocolate and low-carb caramel.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
• 1 package (315 g) soft caramels, unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or coconut oil (optional for smoother chocolate)
• Optional: sea salt, white chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Toast Pecans

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Place pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.

Step 2: Arrange Pecans

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Group 3–4 pecans for each candy.

Step 3: Melt Caramel

Combine caramels and cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth (~2 minutes). Pour over pecan clusters and let sit 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate

Microwave chocolate and optional oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Candies

Pour chocolate over caramel-covered pecans. Sprinkle sea salt or drizzle white chocolate if desired.

Step 6: Set Candies

Allow candies to set at room temperature or refrigerate 30 minutes until chocolate hardens. Store in an airtight container.

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook/Melting Time: 15 minutes
• Assembly & Setting: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition (per candy, approximate)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Sugar: 12 g

Q1: Can I use almonds instead of pecans?

Yes! Almonds or a mix of nuts work well for different textures and flavors.

Q2: Can I make these candies ahead of time?

Yes, they keep well up to a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge.

Q3: How do I prevent chocolate from cracking?

Use a small amount of oil and avoid overheating chocolate during melting.

Q4: Can I make a keto version?

Use sugar-free chocolate and low-carb caramel to make a keto-friendly treat.

Q5: Do I need to toast pecans?

Toasting enhances flavor and aroma but is optional.