Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters (Mediterranean Style)
🧺 Ingredients (Makes ~18 clusters)
Pecan Base
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1½ cups pecan halves
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1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (light, fruity)
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1 tbsp honey
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Pinch sea salt
Caramel Layer
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½ cup soft caramels, unwrapped
or -
½ cup date caramel (Mediterranean option – see note below)
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2 tbsp heavy cream or coconut cream
Chocolate Coating
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200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70%)
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1 tsp olive oil or butter (for shine)
Optional Mediterranean Finishes
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Flaky sea salt
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Orange zest
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Crushed pistachios
🔥 Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans
Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F.
Toss pecans with olive oil, honey, and sea salt.
Toast 8–10 minutes until fragrant. Cool slightly.
2. Form Clusters
Line a baking tray with parchment.
Arrange toasted pecans into small clusters (about 3–4 pecans each).
3. Make the Caramel
Heat caramels and cream gently over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Spoon a small amount over each pecan cluster.
Let set 10–15 minutes.
4. Melt the Chocolate
Melt dark chocolate gently (double boiler or microwave in short bursts).
Stir in olive oil for gloss.
5. Coat the Clusters
Spoon melted chocolate over caramel-pecan clusters, letting it drip naturally.
6. Finish & Set
Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt, orange zest, or pistachios if using.
Chill 20–30 minutes until firm.
🫒 Mediterranean Date Caramel (Optional Upgrade)
Blend:
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¾ cup soft Medjool dates
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2 tbsp warm cream or coconut cream
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1 tsp olive oil
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Pinch sea salt
Silky, naturally sweet, and very Mediterranean.
💡 Pro Tips
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Use high-quality dark chocolate for depth, not sweetness
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Olive oil enhances chocolate flavor—use mild, fruity EVOO
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Store in an airtight container in a cool place up to 1 week
These clusters are luxurious, balanced, and perfect for holidays, gifting, or mezze-style dessert boards ✨
