Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups pecan halves

1 cup caramels, unwrapped

2 tablespoons milk

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

Start by preparing your workspace. Ensure that you have a clean surface and gather all your ingredients. You will also need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and milk. Stir continuously until the caramels are completely melted and smooth. This step is crucial, as you want to avoid burning the caramel.

Once the caramel is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate it fully.

Now, take the pecan halves and form small clusters by grouping a few together. You can make clusters of about 3-4 nuts each, which will provide an excellent base for your turtles.

On the lined baking sheet, place the pecan clusters. Using a spoon, drizzle or pour a generous amount of the melted caramel over each cluster. Take your time to ensure even coverage.

After the caramel has been added, melt the chocolate chips using a microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until they are smooth and melted.

Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters, ensuring they are well coated. Feel free to use a drizzle technique for a decorative touch …