Chocolate Pecan Turtles

Ingredients:

For the Caramel:

12 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Clusters:

2 cups pecan halves

12 oz semisweet or dark chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pecans:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange the pecan halves in small clusters of 3-4 pecans on the parchment paper. Make sure they are close together but not overlapping.

Make the Caramel:

In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.

Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the caramel reaches a temperature of 235-240°F (113-116°C) on a candy thermometer (soft ball stage).

Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Clusters:

Using a spoon, carefully drop a small amount of caramel onto each pecan cluster, just enough to hold the pecans together. Allow the caramel to cool and harden slightly.

Melt the Chocolate:

Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second increments and stirring after each until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.

Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water.

Coat the Clusters:

Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, covering the caramel completely.

Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until fully hardened.

Store and Serve:

Once the chocolate is set, transfer the clusters to an airtight container.

Store them in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

These chocolate pecan turtles make a perfect homemade gift or a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends!