Dive into the heart of Southern hospitality with our divine Georgia Browns recipe. These delectable treats, also known as “Turtle Candies,” marry the buttery richness of caramel, the crunch of pecans, and the indulgence of melted chocolate. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you to the charming streets of Georgia. Whether enjoyed as a sweet indulgence for yourself or shared with friends and family, Georgia Browns are sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 ¾ cups semi-sweet chocolate, melted
For Caramel:
- ¼ cup water
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ⅔ cup corn syrup
- 7 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.
- Coat Pecans in Chocolate: Dip each toasted pecan half into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Use a fork to lift the pecan out of the chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. Place the chocolate-coated pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm.
- Prepare Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine water, dark brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Cook Caramel: Once boiling, continue to cook the caramel, stirring constantly, until it reaches the soft-ball stage or a temperature of 235°F (113°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Assemble Georgia Browns: Place a dollop of caramel onto each chocolate-coated pecan. Use a spoon to shape the caramel around the pecan, forming a turtle shape. Repeat with remaining pecans and caramel.
- Let Set: Allow the Georgia Browns to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the caramel is firm.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, indulge in the rich, sweet flavor of Georgia Browns. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Chocolate Varieties: Experiment with different types of chocolate such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate for varied flavor profiles.
- Nut Options: Swap out pecans for other nuts like almonds or cashews to create different variations of this classic treat.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, we’ve adapted this Georgia Browns recipe to suit your dietary preferences:
- Keto Version: Replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use sugar-free chocolate for the coating. Opt for a low-carb corn syrup substitute or omit it altogether. Ensure the sweetened condensed milk is sugar-free or make your own using heavy cream and a keto-friendly sweetener.
- Low Carb Version: Use a combination of sugar and a low-carb sweetener such as stevia or sucralose. Choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content to reduce sugar content. Replace corn syrup with a low-carb syrup alternative such as fiber syrup or a combination of water and glycerin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-toasted pecans for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-toasted pecans to save time. Simply skip the toasting step and proceed with dipping them in chocolate.
Q: How long do Georgia Browns last? A: Georgia Browns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, store them in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Q: Can I freeze Georgia Browns? A: Yes, you can freeze Georgia Browns for up to three months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
With their irresistible blend of caramel, chocolate, and toasted pecans, Georgia Browns are a true Southern delicacy that embodies the essence of indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a special treat for yourself or shared with loved ones, these delectable candies are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. So, savor each bite, cherish the moment, and delight in the sweet pleasures of homemade goodness.
