The Ultimate Recipe for Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters: Decadent Caramel Candy Perfection

There are few confections in the world that evoke such immediate nostalgia and luxury as the perfect turtle candy. These irresistible treats a crunchy cluster of toasted pecans, blanketed in rich, homemade soft caramel, and then draped in a glossy cloak of premium chocolate are the absolute pinnacle of holiday baking and gourmet gifting. Forget the store-bought versions; once you experience the chewy, buttery delight of Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters made from scratch, you’ll never look back. This recipe guides you through every step, ensuring you achieve that perfect soft-ball stage caramel and a beautifully balanced, rich flavor.

Making your own candy might sound intimidating, but with a reliable recipe and a little patience (especially regarding that candy thermometer!), creating these stunning Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is entirely achievable. They require just a few high-quality ingredients and yield approximately 24 heavenly clusters that are perfect for serving at parties, wrapping up as heartfelt gifts, or simply indulging in with a perfect cup of coffee. Let’s dive into the process of creating this timeless, truly decadent dessert.

Why You’ll Love These Decadent Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

The magic of a great turtle cluster lies in the exquisite contrast of textures and flavors. It is a symphony in miniature, balancing sweetness, crunch, and richness, making it one of the most celebrated confections worldwide. When comparing homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters to commercially produced candies, the difference is immediate and profound. Here’s why this scratch recipe will become your new favorite:

Superior Texture: The Homemade Caramel Difference

The core of any great turtle is its caramel, and this recipe delivers a soft, chewy, yet stable caramel that simply cannot be replicated by factory processes. Store-bought turtles often use hard, brittle, or overly synthetic caramel. Our homemade version uses ample butter, real cream, and precise temperature control (hitting that crucial 240°F soft-ball stage) to create a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience that sticks just enough to your teeth to let you savor the flavor. The texture is the defining feature, lending a gourmet feel to every bite of these amazing Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Freshly Toasted Pecans for Maximum Flavor

Pecans are flavorful nuts, but their flavor truly explodes when lightly toasted. By toasting the pecan halves right before assembly, we unlock their deep, earthy, and slightly smoky profile. This step is non-negotiable and provides the necessary crunchy foundation for the soft caramel and smooth chocolate. The contrast between the warm, nutty crunch and the smooth, cool chocolate coating is what elevates these clusters from a simple treat to a complex dessert. If you love pecan desserts, this is the freshest way to enjoy them.

Customize Your Coating: Quality Chocolate for the Win

When you make candy at home, you control the quality of the ingredients. By choosing a high-quality melting chocolate whether you prefer rich dark chocolate, classic milk chocolate, or a balanced semi-sweet blend you ensure a clean, vibrant chocolate finish. We recommend using a good couverture chocolate that melts smoothly and sets glossy. This choice dramatically impacts the overall taste of your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, guaranteeing a luxurious and satisfying chocolate snap.

Furthermore, the process of assembly, while requiring some quick action during the caramel pouring phase, is incredibly rewarding. There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from creating something so visually appealing and wonderfully delicious from simple pantry staples. Whether you are seeking a showstopper dessert for the holidays or simply craving the ultimate crunchy, chewy, chocolatey delight, this recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is the perfect undertaking.

Why You Should Try Making These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Today

Beyond the undeniable deliciousness, venturing into candy making, particularly with a classic like Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, offers several benefits from mastering basic confectionery skills to creating memorable, gift-worthy treats. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to get into the kitchen and create something truly special, this is it.

The Joy of Mastering Homemade Caramel

Caramel making is often viewed as a culinary mystery, but this recipe simplifies the process. It teaches you the crucial technique of using a candy thermometer to achieve the exact “soft-ball stage” (240°F). Successfully making caramel from scratch is a rewarding culinary accomplishment that opens the door to countless other homemade candies and desserts. Once you master the soft caramel needed for these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, you can confidently tackle other favorites, like gooey caramel sauce for ice cream or other delectable desserts.

Perfect for Gifting and Holiday Trays

Handmade food gifts carry a special weight. A tin filled with glossy, homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is infinitely more impressive and appreciated than a generic box of chocolates. Because they are individually sized and hold up well at room temperature (if stored properly), they are ideal for holiday cookie exchanges, hostess gifts, or simply saying “thank you.” They are beautiful on a platter alongside other seasonal treats, like homemade fudge or Pecan Pie Cobbler.

A Fun and Engaging Kitchen Project

While the caramel requires precision, the rest of the process toasting the pecans, arranging the clusters, and especially dipping or drizzling the chocolate is fun and engaging. It’s a wonderful project for a rainy afternoon or a weekend baking session. The assembly process is also a great way to involve older children (with adult supervision around the hot caramel), teaching them kitchen skills and patience.

Versatility and Adaptability

While we focus on the classic Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, the basic structure of this candy is incredibly adaptable. You can easily switch up the nuts (walnuts or cashews work beautifully), change the chocolate type (white chocolate offers a completely different, sweeter profile), or add finishing touches like coarse sea salt or chili flakes for a spicy twist. This recipe provides a rock-solid foundation for future candy explorations.

We believe that taking the time to make high-quality, memorable treats is a form of self-care and hospitality. These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a testament to that philosophy a simple structure built with care and quality ingredients resulting in an extraordinary treat that everyone will rave about. If you enjoy classic chocolate recipes, you might also be interested in our guide to making a stunning Decadent Chocolate Cream Pie for another impressive sweet creation.

Ingredients and Essential Tools for Gourmet Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Success in candy making starts with accurate measurements and the right equipment. Below is a detailed breakdown of the components and tools necessary to create perfect Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Precise Ingredients for Perfect Caramel

The quality of your Homemade Soft Caramel is highly dependent on the freshness and temperature of your ingredients. Ensure everything is measured accurately before you begin.

For the Pecan Bases:

• 2 cups (about 8 ounces) raw pecan halves: Use high-quality, fresh pecans. Toasting them is essential for maximizing flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional): A slight dusting on the pecans before roasting enhances their flavor and contrasts the eventual sweetness of the caramel.

For the Homemade Soft Caramel (Key to Perfect Turtle Clusters):

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the final salt content. Cutting it into chunks ensures it melts evenly.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides the depth, moisture, and molasses notes crucial for a rich caramel flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar: Essential for structure and sweetness.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (at room temperature): This is CRITICAL. Cold cream can shock the caramel, causing it to seize or crystalize. Allow the cream to warm up on the counter for at least 30 minutes before starting.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the extreme sweetness and enhances the complex flavors of the caramel.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Added at the very end, vanilla contributes floral warmth. Use pure extract, not imitation.

For the Chocolate Coating and Finish:

• 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate: Use good-quality milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or a combination. The higher the cocoa butter content, the smoother the melt and the better the final glossy snap.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional): Adding a small amount of fat helps thin the melted chocolate, making it easier to dip and ensuring a beautiful, glossy finish on your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Essential Tools for Candy Making Success

While many dessert recipes are forgiving, candy making is science. You need specific tools to ensure the caramel reaches the precise temperature required for a soft, chewy texture.

1. Heavy-Bottomed 3-Quart Saucepan: A heavy bottom prevents scorching, which is the nemesis of caramel. Do not use thin aluminum pots.
2. Candy Thermometer: Absolutely indispensable. This clips to the side of the pot and measures the temperature accurately. Guessing the temperature (or relying on boil time) is the fastest way to ruin a batch of caramel.
3. Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Crucial for preventing sticking. The caramel will firmly bond to unlined baking sheets.
4. Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the caramel. Avoid wire whisks, as they introduce air and can encourage crystallization.
5. Baking Sheets: Two large sheets are needed for toasting the pecans and assembling the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.
6. Small Spoon or Measuring Spoon: Used for carefully doling out the hot, liquid caramel onto the pecan clusters.
7. Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: For melting the chocolate smoothly and slowly.

A Note on Humidity:

Humidity is the enemy of hard candy and caramel. If it is a very humid day, the excess moisture in the air can cause your caramel to become stickier or struggle to set properly. If possible, choose a dry day for making your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. Alternatively, running a dehumidifier in the kitchen while cooking can help mitigate this common candy-making challenge.

Detailed Instructions: How to Create Perfect Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

This process is broken down into five distinct phases: preparation, caramel creation, assembly, chocolate preparation, and finishing. Follow these steps meticulously, paying close attention to the caramel temperature, and you will achieve flawless results.

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans (The Foundation)

1. Preheat and Line: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This lining is vital, as it ensures the finished Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters release easily.
2. Toast for Flavor: Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets. Toast the pecans in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes. Watch these closely; nuts burn quickly! They are ready when they are fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Cool and Cluster: Remove the toasted pecans from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, arrange them directly onto the parchment-lined baking sheets in small clusters of three or four nuts, positioned close together. These pecan groupings are the “shells” of your turtle clusters. Ensure you leave adequate space (about 2 inches) between each cluster for the caramel to spread.

Step 2: Make the Soft Caramel (The Heart of the Turtle)

This step requires your full attention and a reliable candy thermometer.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the room-temperature heavy whipping cream, unsalted butter chunks, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar.
2. Dissolve and Melt: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Continue stirring until the butter is completely melted and all the sugar crystals have dissolved into the liquid. It is crucial at this stage that you feel no grit remaining when you rub a small sample between your fingers.
3. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a gentle, rolling boil. Clip your candy thermometer securely to the side of the pot, ensuring the bulb is fully submerged but not touching the bottom of the saucepan. Reduce the heat slightly so the boil remains steady but not too vigorous, minimizing splash-up.
4. Achieve Soft-Ball Stage: Continue boiling without stirring (stirring after boiling begins can encourage crystallization) until the caramel registers exactly 240°F (115°C). This is the soft-ball stage, which ensures chewy, perfect caramel. This typically takes between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your stovetop.
5. Stop Cooking: Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat once 240°F is reached. Stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Be cautious, as the introduction of the vanilla will cause the hot mixture to bubble up significantly.
6. Slightly Cool: Allow the caramel to cool slightly in the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes. This cooling period is important; it thickens the caramel just enough to prevent it from running excessively and creating large puddles when poured over the nuts.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtle Clusters

1. Pour the Caramel: Working quickly while the caramel is still warm, glossy, and pourable, use a small spoon (a metal measuring tablespoon works perfectly) to dollop the caramel generously over the center of each pecan cluster. Aim to cover the center of the nuts, effectively binding the 3-4 pecans together into a tight cluster.
2. Let Set: Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for 15 minutes, until the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch. The caramel must be firm before moving to the next step, or the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters will collapse when dipped.

Step 4: Melt and Temper the Chocolate

1. Prepare the Chocolate: Place the 12 ounces of melting chocolate (along with the optional shortening or coconut oil) in a sturdy, microwave-safe bowl.
2. Melt Smoothly: Microwave the chocolate on high power in short, 30-second intervals. After each interval, stir the chocolate thoroughly. Continue this process until the chocolate is about 75% melted, then rely on residual heat to melt the rest. This gradual heating prevents scorching. Alternatively, use a double boiler over gently simmering water for the most controlled melt.
3. Achieve Glossiness: Stir the melted chocolate until it is completely smooth, glossy, and uniform.

Step 5: Dip and Finish the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

This is the final, satisfying step that transforms the caramel clusters into true gourmet Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

1. Choose Your Coating Style: You have two classic choices for applying the chocolate finish:
   • Dipping (Full Coat): Carefully pick up each caramel-pecan cluster and dip the bottom fully into the melted chocolate. Return the cluster to a fresh piece of clean parchment paper. For a fully coated turtle (the most decadent option), use two forks to fully submerge the entire cluster, letting the excess drip off before returning it to the parchment.
   • Drizzling (Classic Look): If you prefer the look where the caramel and pecans are visible, leave the bottoms clean. Use a spoon to liberally drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops of the caramel clusters until they are adequately coated and look like a true turtle shell.
2. Add Finishing Salt (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, you may sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt (like Maldon) on top of each cluster. This beautiful visual element also provides a wonderful salty crunch.
3. Set and Cure: Let the completed Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters rest at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely hardened and set.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Even experienced cooks sometimes face challenges with candy making. Here are professional tips, common troubleshooting advice, and delicious ways to customize your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Troubleshooting Caramel: Common Mistakes and Fixes

Why is my caramel gritty?

Grittiness means the sugar didn’t dissolve fully at the beginning. Ensure you stir constantly until the mixture is fully boiling and you feel no sugar crystals remaining. Once boiling, stop stirring. If crystals form on the side of the pot during boiling, wipe them down with a pastry brush dipped in water.

Why is my caramel too hard or brittle?

The temperature went too high. If the temperature exceeds 245°F (118°C), the caramel moves past the soft-ball stage and into the firm-ball or hard-ball stage. A candy thermometer is non-negotiable. If it is already cooked too high, you can attempt to salvage it by adding a tiny splash of cream (1 teaspoon) and stirring vigorously off the heat, but this is a risky maneuver.

Why did my caramel seize up?

This is usually caused by adding cold ingredients (like cold heavy cream or cold vanilla extract) after the mixture is hot, or by humidity causing crystallization. Always ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature.

Creative Variations on Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Once you master the base recipe, feel free to experiment with flavor combinations:

• Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for toasted walnuts, buttery macadamia nuts, or whole roasted almonds. These still provide the necessary crunch beneath the soft caramel.
• Vegan Turtles: Achieve a vegan-friendly version by replacing the dairy butter with a high-quality, plant-based butter alternative and swapping the heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream (the thick cream scooped from the top of a chilled can). Use vegan chocolate chips for the coating.
• Spice Infusions: Before removing the caramel from the heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy Mexican twist, or a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
• White Chocolate Cranberry Turtles: Use white chocolate for the coating and scatter a few dried cranberries alongside the pecans before pouring the caramel. This is a festive twist perfect for holiday baking.

Storage and Shelf Life

Properly stored Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters last quite a while, making them ideal for preparation in advance.

• Room Temperature: Store the finished clusters in an airtight container at cool room temperature (below 70°F/21°C) for up to one week. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Refrigerated Storage: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the clusters for up to three weeks. Allow them to come close to room temperature before serving for the best caramel texture.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to three months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight.

For more inspiration on using pecans and creating rich, chocolatey desserts, check out our selection of sweet treats, including this indulgent Triple Chocolate Pie. We also regularly share candy and confection tips on our social channels come join us on Pinterest for daily recipe ideas!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pecan Clusters

While Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are undeniably an indulgent treat, they also incorporate the natural goodness of pecans. Understanding the ingredients helps appreciate the energy and nutrients provided by this confectionery classic.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Cluster)

Given the rich ingredients butter, sugar, and chocolate these are calorie-dense treats. (Note: These are estimates and vary based on the size of the cluster and exact chocolate used.)

• Calories: Approximately 180–220 calories
• Total Fat: 12g–15g (primarily from butter, chocolate, and pecans)
• Saturated Fat: 6g–8g
• Carbohydrates: 18g–22g (mostly sugars from the caramel)
• Protein: 2g–3g (from the pecans)
• Fiber: 1g–2g

The Power of Pecans: More Than Just Crunch

Pecans are one of the most nutrient-dense nuts, offering significant health benefits, even when consumed in a dessert like Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters:

Healthy Fats (Monounsaturated)

Pecans are packed with monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, the same type of healthy fat found in olives and avocados. These fats are beneficial for heart health, helping to lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).

Excellent Source of Manganese and Copper

Pecans are high in essential minerals. Manganese supports metabolic health and enzyme function, while copper is crucial for iron absorption and collagen production. Enjoying a few Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters provides a small boost of these vital micronutrients.

Antioxidants for Cellular Health

Pecans rank highly among nuts for antioxidant content, particularly Vitamin E. These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body. Pairing these nutrient-rich nuts with good quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate which also contains its own complex array of antioxidants further boosts the nutritional profile of these tasty clusters.

Fiber for Satiety

The fiber content in pecans helps slow digestion, which, despite the sugar content of the caramel, offers a slight feeling of satiety and helps regulate blood sugar response compared to eating simple sugars alone. This makes these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters a truly satisfying and decadent treat best enjoyed in moderation.

While these candies are a treat and not a health food staple, using real, high-quality ingredients ensures that when you do indulge, you are getting the maximum flavor and some beneficial nutrients wrapped up in your perfect caramel confection.

FAQs About Making Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Conclusion: The Satisfaction of Homemade Gourmet Candy

Making your own Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is more than just a baking project; it’s an experience in creating luxury from scratch. By taking the time to toast the pecans and master the precise art of soft caramel heating it perfectly to 240°F you transform simple ingredients into a gourmet confection that easily rivals the most expensive candy store offerings.

From the foundational crunch of the toasted pecans to the buttery chew of the homemade caramel and the satisfying snap of the chocolate coating, every element of these clusters is designed for maximum flavor impact. Whether you choose to fully dip them or drizzle the chocolate for that iconic turtle look, the finished product is a visually stunning and deeply satisfying treat.

These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are the perfect addition to any festive occasion, gift basket, or simply as a weekend treat for yourself. They showcase how a little extra effort in the kitchen especially when it comes to the caramel yields truly spectacular results. We encourage you to grab your candy thermometer, prepare your ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey. Share your success with us, and don’t forget to check out our other classic comfort food recipes, like our Pecan Pie Cobbler, which complements these clusters perfectly.

Enjoy the rich, complex flavors of your homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters!

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters (Homemade Soft Caramel Recipe)

These classic Turtle Clusters feature rich, homemade soft caramel poured over perfectly toasted pecans, then coated in high-quality melted chocolate. A decadent, must-make holiday confection.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 24 clusters

Course: Confection, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 275

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pecan Bases

• 2 cups (8 ounces) raw pecan halves
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt optional, if toasting nuts

For the Homemade Soft Caramel

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter cut into chunks
• 1 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

• 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or a combination
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil optional, for smoother melting consistency

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed Saucepan (3-quart)
• Candy Thermometer
• Baking Sheets
• Parchment paper

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets. Toast the pecans in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Remove and let them cool completely.
3. Once cooled, arrange the pecans onto the parchment-lined baking sheets in small clusters of three or four nuts, positioned close together. Ensure you leave adequate space between each cluster.

Step 2: Make the Soft Caramel

1. In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, and heavy whipping cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is completely melted and the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat slightly so the boil remains steady but not too vigorous. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot.
3. Continue boiling without stirring until the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage: 240°F (115°C). This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool slightly in the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes to prevent running.

Step 3: Assemble and Set the Clusters

1. Working quickly while the caramel is still warm and pourable, use a small spoon or measuring tablespoon to dollop the caramel generously over the center of each pecan cluster, binding them together.
2. Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for 15 minutes, until the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch (Chill Time).

Step 4: Chocolate Coating and Finish

1. Melt the 12 ounces of chocolate (and optional shortening/oil) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is smooth, glossy, and fully melted.
2. Dip or Drizzle: Carefully pick up each caramel-pecan cluster and dip the bottom fully into the melted chocolate. Alternatively, use a spoon to liberally drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops of the caramel clusters for the classic look.
3. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the wet chocolate on each cluster.
4. Let the completed Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters rest or chill in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely hardened and set.

Notes

Chill Time is approximately 1 hour total (15 minutes to set caramel, 30+ minutes to set chocolate). For best results and flavor, ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature before starting the caramel. Store turtles in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer storage.