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Begin by lining the bottom of your slow cooker with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Place the pecan halves in small clusters (about 3 pecans per cluster) at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Unwrap the caramel candies and place one on top of each pecan cluster.
Cover and cook on low for about 1 hour, or until the caramels are softened and slightly melted.
Once the caramels are melted, add the chocolate chips and butter to the slow cooker.
Cover and allow the chocolate to melt for another 15-20 minutes.
Stir the chocolate and butter together until smooth, then drizzle the chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster.
After drizzling, place the slow cooker on warm and let everything set for about 30 minutes.
Remove the turtles from the slow cooker and allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
Serving and Storage Tips:
These chocolate turtles can be served as a stand-alone treat or used to garnish cakes, cupcakes, or ice cream for extra flair.
Once completely cooled, store your turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain their freshness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Variations:
Nut Variations: While pecans are the classic choice for these chocolate turtles, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts, cashews, or almonds.
Chocolate Options: If you prefer a different type of chocolate, try using milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Salted Turtles: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of each chocolate turtle after drizzling for a salty-sweet contrast.
Flavor Twist: Add a touch of flavored extracts like almond, hazelnut, or orange to the chocolate for a personalized flavor profile.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of caramel for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the wrapped caramel candies with homemade caramel or use soft caramel squares, but be sure they are easily meltable for best results.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
While a slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, you can make chocolate turtles using a microwave. Simply melt the caramels, chocolate, and butter in short intervals in the microwave and follow the rest of the instructions as usual.
How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
If the chocolate hardens before you can drizzle it over the caramels, simply place the slow cooker back on warm for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party or gift?
Absolutely! These chocolate turtles can be made several days in advance. Just make sure to store them properly to keep them fresh, and they’ll be perfect for gifting or serving at events.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate turtles!
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