This Crockpot Chocolate Turtle Candy is one of those super easy, crowd-pleasing recipes that makes your house smell amazing and your kitchen feel extra cozy.
It’s just a few simple ingredients—chocolate, pecans, and caramel—all melted together into little bite-sized clusters.
You let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. That’s my kind of treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this around the holidays, but honestly, I make it year-round now. It’s too good to save for just once a year. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- It’s dump-and-go. No baking, no stirring constantly.
- It tastes just like fancy candy shop turtles but for a fraction of the price.
- Everyone loves them. Every. Single. Time.
- You can make a huge batch all at once.
What You’ll Need
- 16 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 16 oz milk chocolate chips
- 16 oz caramel bits
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- 3 cups whole roasted pecans
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use parchment paper, not wax paper, to set the candies—much easier cleanup.
- Don’t stir too early! Let the chocolate melt slowly so it doesn’t seize.
- Add the pecans last to keep them crunchy.
- A cookie scoop gives you the perfect-sized cluster every time.
- Add the sea salt right before the chocolate sets—it sticks better and looks pretty.
Tools Required
- 6-quart crockpot
- Medium cookie scoop
- Parchment paper
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap caramel bits for soft caramel squares (unwrap first!)
- Use dark chocolate if you like a richer flavor
- Try chopped pecans instead of whole for easier bites
- Add crushed pretzels for a salty twist
- Drizzle white chocolate on top for extra flair
Make Ahead Tips
You can make these 1–2 weeks ahead. Once they’re set, just store them in an airtight container at room temp. They don’t melt easily and actually taste better after sitting a day.
How Many It Serves and Time Needed
Makes: About 40–45 pieces
Cook Time: 2 hours on low
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cool Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 3 hours 10 minutes
Macros (Per piece, estimate)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 13g
- Sugar: 11g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The slow, even heat of the crockpot melts the chocolate without scorching it. Caramel bits soften evenly with a little cream so they stay gooey, not hard. Pecans go in last to keep their texture and crunch. The layers work together because each one melts at the right time and temp—no rushing needed.
Common Mistakes
- Stirring too soon: Let everything melt undisturbed first, or it may seize.
- Using raw pecans: Roasted ones taste way better and add flavor.
- Skipping parchment paper: Trust me, you’ll regret it when it’s time to remove them.
- Cooking on high: Always go low and slow for smooth melting.
- Adding salt too early: It’ll dissolve—wait until the tops are just set.
What to Serve With
- Hot cocoa or coffee
- A cold glass of milk
- On a dessert platter with cookies and fudge
- Packed into cute bags for gifts
FAQ
Can I use only one type of chocolate?
Yep! Just use 32 oz of whichever kind you like best.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
Yes, just 1 tbsp helps keep the caramel soft and smooth.
Can I freeze them?
You can, but the caramel may get a little sticky. They’re best stored at room temp.
What kind of pecans should I use?
Whole roasted unsalted pecans are best. Toasted is okay too!
How to Make Crockpot Chocolate Turtle Candy
Step 1: Layer the Chocolate Chips
Pour 16 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips and 16 oz milk chocolate chips into the bottom of your crockpot.
Step 2: Add the Caramel and Cream
Sprinkle 16 oz caramel bits evenly over the chocolate, then drizzle 1 tablespoon of heavy cream right on top.
Step 3: Cover and Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 2 hours. Do not stir.
Step 4: Stir Until Smooth
After 2 hours, uncover and gently stir everything together with a spatula until smooth and fully melted.
Step 5: Add Pecans
Gently fold in 3 cups of whole roasted pecans into the melted chocolate mixture.
Step 6: Scoop Onto Parchment
Use a medium cookie scoop to drop clusters of the mixture onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Salt
While clusters are still soft, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each one.
Step 8: Let Cool and Set
Let the clusters sit at room temperature for about 1 hour until fully set. Then serve or store.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. No need to refrigerate unless your kitchen is super warm. You can layer them with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
Wrap-Up
These Crockpot Chocolate Turtle Candies are rich, gooey, crunchy, and so easy to make it almost feels like cheating. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment and share your favorite twist or how fast they disappeared from your snack table.
