CHOCOLATE PECAN TURTLE CLUSTERS

have been making these for years now and they are always a big hit. I do offer a couple suggestions. I use the round pretzels that are usually available around the holidays. The Rolo fits nicely inside it and makes for the perfect little treat. Also, after these are completely cooled, I melt a cup of white chocolate chips with a little Crisco, place it into a zip lock bag cutting a small hole in the corner. I then drizzle it over the turtles. They turn out beautiful.

Do yourself a favor and double the recipe. As long as you’re going to make them, it doesn’t really add much more time and expense, and these were a big hit! I couldn’t find Rolos, but I did find Dove Chocolates w/Caramel. They worked perfectly and are very good (smoother/creamier than Rolos). I also used the square shaped “Snap” pretzels. The chocolates fit very well on top. Baked the candies for only 3 min. – more than enough time. I think any longer and you run the risk of the caramel squishing out of the chocolate candy when you place the pecan halves on top. Be gentle or you’ll have a mess on your hands, and they’ll be sticky and messier to hold when served. Chill them out in the fridge for 1/2 hr. or so and they should pop right off the parchment paper. I also pre-toasted the pecans. Toasting/roasting nuts always makes them taste better. Coated the pecan halves with a little melted butter, and baked for 10 – 15 min @ 325 (watch to prevent burning). Let cool, then proceed w/recipe. Again – something so easy, and they’re really popular!