Description

Learn how to make delicious Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles! Rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans in a simple recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List (with Measurements)

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles:

For the Turtles:

2 cups pecan halves: The base of each turtle, providing crunch and a nutty flavor.
16 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: Choose high-quality chocolate for a smoother, richer flavor.
11 oz soft caramel candies: Unwrapped and ready to melt. You can also use caramel bits for faster melting.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Added to the caramel to create a smooth, creamy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the chocolate and caramel.
Sea salt or flaky salt (optional): For sprinkling on top of the turtles to balance the sweetness with a hint of saltiness.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles

With all the tools and ingredients ready, it’s time to start making your Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect batch of homemade candy.

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Set the Slow Cooker to Low: Turn your slow cooker to the low setting to begin gently melting the ingredients.
Add the Chocolate and Caramel: Place the chocolate chips, caramel candies, and butter into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Melt the Ingredients

Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let the chocolate and caramel melt slowly for about 1-2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure an even melt.
Add Vanilla Extract: Once the mixture is smooth and melted, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtles

Prepare the Baking Sheets: While the chocolate and caramel are melting, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Place Pecans: Arrange small clusters of 3-4 pecan halves on the baking sheets, leaving space between each cluster.
Spoon the Mixture: Once the chocolate and caramel mixture is fully melted, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drizzle the mixture over each pecan cluster, covering them completely.
Optional – Add Sea Salt: If desired, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each turtle for a salty-sweet contrast.

Step 4: Let the Turtles Cool

Set the Turtles: Allow the chocolate turtles to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to cool and harden.
Transfer to the Refrigerator: If you prefer a faster setting time, you can place the baking sheets in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes until the chocolate and caramel are firm.

Notes

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles

Here are some expert tips to help you make flawless chocolate turtles every time, from ensuring the right texture to adding a professional finishing touch.

1. Stir Regularly in the Slow Cooker

To prevent the caramel and chocolate from scorching or clumping in the slow cooker, stir the mixture every 30 minutes. This ensures even melting and smooth consistency.

2. Use High-Quality Chocolate

The better the chocolate, the better your turtles will taste. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips or bars with a high cocoa content for the richest flavor. Avoid low-grade baking chocolate, which may not melt as smoothly.

3. Toast the Pecans for Added Flavor

For a deeper, more robust nutty flavor, lightly toast the pecans before using them. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the turtles.

4. Drizzle with Contrasting Chocolate

For a more professional, bakery-style look, drizzle your turtles with a contrasting chocolate once they’ve cooled. Use white chocolate or dark chocolate in a small piping bag or a spoon to add a decorative touch.

5. Add Flaky Salt

If you love the combination of sweet and salty, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each turtle before they set. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, enhancing the caramel and chocolate.