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overhead view of vegan chocolate caramel pecan turtles on parchment paper.

Chocolate Pecan Caramel Turtles


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  • Author: Lexi
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12-15 clusters 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

These dark chocolate pecan caramel turtle clusters are vegan, naturally gluten free, and such an easy homemade dessert! I love these as a fun, healthier holiday treat or as a quick dessert or snack any time of year.


Ingredients

Scale

Caramel:

  • 15 oz can of coconut cream (only use solid top layer of cream in can)
  • 1/3 cup coconut sugar
  • 3 medjool dates, pitted and halved
  • 2 tbsp coconut butter or coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Assembly:

  • About 1 cup raw, unsalted pecans (5 per cluster)
  • 8 oz dark chocolate, melted
  • Optional: flaky salt for topping

Instructions

  1. Soak the pitted, halved dates in warm water for about 15 minutes, until they start to soften. Drain well and gently pat dry.
  2. Add all caramel ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer, whisking frequently, for about 5-7 minutes (until the caramel thickens). Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. To speed this up, transfer the caramel to a different container.
  3. Arrange 5-6 pecans (for each cluster) on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Top each cluster with caramel. Freeze for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Chop chocolate into small shards and microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until completely melted. Let cool slightly. 
  5. Top the caramel with a layer of chocolate. (I just use a spoon to do this – it doesn't have to be perfect!) Optional: top with a bit of flaky salt. Return to freezer or refrigerator until solidified, then enjoy!

Notes

Not a fan of pecans? Sub with cashews, almonds or walnuts.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Cluster
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 13.3 g
  • Sodium: 48.3 mg
  • Fat: 18.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18.6 g
  • Fiber: 2.4 g
  • Protein: 2.4 g