Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

While the caramel is still warm, carefully spoon it over the pecan clusters.

1. Use about 1 1/2 teaspoons of caramel for each cluster, ensuring that it drizzles over the pecans to bind them together.
2. Work quickly, as caramel sets as it cools. The warm caramel will coat each pecan, creating a glue-like effect that gives these clusters their signature shape.

Tip: If the caramel begins to harden in the pan, briefly return it to the heat to soften before continuing.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

For the final topping, melt the milk chocolate chips, giving these clusters a smooth and indulgent finish.

1. Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted.
2. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of shortening to the melted chocolate. This addition helps create a glossy, smooth chocolate that’s easy to drizzle over the clusters.

Tip: Melt the chocolate slowly to prevent it from scorching. Stirring between intervals will help the chips melt evenly and avoid overheating.

Step 6: Top with Chocolate