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Paleo Maple Pecan Turtles

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4.3 from 51 reviews

These Paleo Maple Caramel Pecan Turtles are a delightful, naturally sweet treat made with real honey, maple syrup, and a luscious caramel coating over pecan clusters, topped with rich dark chocolate. Perfect for anyone looking for a paleo-friendly dessert that’s both indulgent and made with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramel

  • ½ cup honey
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup coconut oil (or ¼ cup coconut oil & ¼ cup grass-fed butter)
  • ¼ cup water

Nuts and Chocolate

  • 8 ounces pecan halves
  • 8 ounces dark chocolate

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pecan Clusters: Line cookie sheets with parchment paper and arrange pecans in clusters, spacing them adequately. Form the traditional ‘turtle’ shape by placing two large pecans end to end for the head and tail, followed by four smaller pecans as legs.
  2. Make Caramel: Combine honey, maple syrup, coconut oil, and water in the top of a double boiler. Heat over medium-low and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Cook for about 20 minutes, watching as the mixture darkens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, then lightens slightly. Pay close attention to these changes as they indicate caramel is nearly done.
  3. Check Caramel Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches 245°F. Alternatively, perform the cold water test by dropping a bit into cold water to form a soft but pliable ball. If it strings rather than forms a ball, continue cooking and test again.
  4. Cool Caramel Slightly: Remove the caramel from heat and let it rest for a few minutes until it cools enough to handle but remains pourable.
  5. Spoon Caramel onto Pecans: Carefully spoon the caramel over each pecan cluster on the cookie sheet, ensuring even coverage.
  6. Melt Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a small pan over simmering water (double boiler method).
  7. Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecan clusters, covering them to create the classic turtle candy appearance.
  8. Let Set: Allow the turtle candies to cool undisturbed at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set.
  9. Store Properly: Store candies between parchment paper in airtight containers. Refrigerate if the environment is warm. These turtles can be stored for up to 48 hours without any loss of flavor or texture.

Notes

  • If not dairy-free, using half grass-fed butter and half coconut oil enhances the depth and roundness of the caramel.
  • Cooking the caramel slowly in a double boiler reduces the risk of burning compared to direct heat on a burner.
  • Setting aside ample time for caramel cooking is crucial to achieving the perfect consistency and flavor.
  • For best results, do not rush the caramelization process.
  • While these candies can be stored up to two weeks, freshness and taste are best within 48 hours.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/paleo-maple-pecan-turtles/