HOMEMADE TURTLE CANDY WITH PECANS AND CARAMEL

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces soft caramels (homemade or store-bought)
• 6 ounces pecan halves (toasted)
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chips are fine)

Instructions for Making Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel:

1. Prepare the Cookie Sheet:
   • Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
   • Spray the foil or parchment with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Arrange the Pecans:
   • Arrange the pecans in clusters of 4, with each pecan pointing in a different direction, resembling turtle legs. Alternatively, you can drop them in small clusters on the baking sheet.
3. Melt the Caramels:
   • If using wrapped caramels, unwrap them and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
   • If the caramels are very stiff, add a spoonful of water to soften the final product.
   • Microwave the caramels until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.
4. Add Caramel to Pecans:
   • Allow the caramel to cool slightly so it’s not too hot.
   • Use a spoon or a small candy scoop to drop a spoonful of caramel onto each pecan cluster. Don’t worry about making the turtles perfectly round or if some of the pecans poke through; they’re meant to be rustic.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
   • Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
6. Add Chocolate to the Turtles:
   • Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, letting some drip down the sides and ensuring it covers the top of the caramel completely.
7. Serve and Store:
   • For the best taste and texture, serve the turtles at room temperature.
   • Store extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at cool room temperature for up to two weeks.

Enjoy your homemade turtle candies!