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Sweet gooey and packed with chocolate caramel and crunchy pecans Easy Crockpot Turtles are my go-to when I need an easy homemade candy but do not want to turn on the oven These treats come together with almost no effort and always disappear fast from the dessert table
I first made these for my kids’ school fundraiser and they were gone by noon Everyone asked for the recipe and now it is my secret for last-minute parties
Ingredients
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: give a smooth rich base Choose quality like Ghirardelli or Guittard for best melt and flavor
- Caramel bits or soft caramels: create the chewy center Look for ones that are soft to the touch as they melt more evenly
- Pecan halves: add the classic crunch and nutty taste Pick fresh pecans that smell sweet and avoid any with a bitter odor
- Heavy cream or milk: helps the caramel melt smoothly Use fresh cream for extra richness
- Butter: boosts caramel flavor and melt optional but worth it if you want extra indulgence
- Flaky sea salt: brings out all the sweet and nutty notes Sprinkle just before serving for a dessert shop touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Layer the Candy:
- Place a layer of pecan halves in the bottom of your slow cooker then scatter chocolate chips evenly over the top Add the caramels and dot with butter and a splash of cream if using Set to low
- Melt Everything Together:
- Cover and let cook on low for one and a half to two hours Try not to peek in the first hour as trapped heat helps everything melt Once the chocolate and caramel are fully glossy and soft stir gently to swirl everything together then turn off the heat Let cool slightly until easy to scoop but still soft
- Scoop and Shape the Turtles:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat Working quickly scoop one to two tablespoons of the mixture into little puddles Spacing is key so they do not touch Top each with a whole pecan half and a dusting of sea salt if desired
- Let Set and Chill:
- Let turtles set at room temperature one to two hours If you are pressed for time slide the tray into the refrigerator thirty minutes for faster firming
- Store and Enjoy:
- Once fully set move the turtles to an airtight container Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking Store at room temperature for a week or in the refrigerator for up to three weeks
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The pecans are my favorite part since my grandmother always included Georgia pecans from her backyard every Christmas These turtles taste just like her homemade gifts but with a modern twist and easier cleanup
Storage Tips
Keep the turtles in a cool dry spot layered between parchment so they do not stick together For make ahead gift giving pop them in the freezer on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag They thaw quickly and taste just as good fresh out of the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap semi sweet for dark or milk chocolate if you want less or more sweetness Almonds or walnuts are easy stand-ins for pecans if allergies are a concern Soft caramels from any brand work in place of caramel bits as long as they are chopped or unwrapped
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Serving Suggestions
Pile high on a cookie tray for holiday parties or wrap up in clear treat bags with ribbon for gifts They look extra festive with a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of white chocolate over each turtle
Cultural Context
Turtles get their name from their rounded shapes and nutty legs popularized in American candy shops a century ago Making them in a crockpot is a newer timesaver but the mix of chocolate caramel and nuts has been a Midwest holiday staple for generations
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make these without a slow cooker?
Yes, simply melt the chocolate and caramel separately using a double boiler or microwave, then assemble the mixture on parchment paper.
- → What substitutes can I use for caramel bits?
You can use soft caramels like Kraft or Werther’s—unwrap and melt them with a bit of cream to achieve the right texture.
- → Is it possible to use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use milk or dark chocolate as you prefer, adjusting the sweetness to suit your taste.
- → Are these treats gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure all your individual ingredients are gluten-free, these clusters will be suitable.
- → Can children participate in making these treats?
Yes, once the mixture is cool enough to handle, it’s a fun and simple activity for kids to help with shaping the clusters.