The inspiration for our Caramel Turtle came from the enduring charm of a classic confection—one that combines rich caramel, toasted nuts, and decadent chocolate into a single, unforgettable bite. As a pastry chef turned chocolatier, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for timeless flavor pairings, and the turtle is a perfect example of that. Our goal was to honor this beloved treat with a more refined expression—elevating every element while preserving the heart of what makes it so loved, and so craveable.
We began with the foundation: the caramel. Caramel holds a special place in my heart and culinary journey. When I first started developing flavors for NLC, a good friend Jean Pierre Wybauw came to visit me in my small 600 sf kitchen. He asked me what flavor I wanted to make with him. I told him my favorite was salted caramel, and he proceeded to show me his version of that ganache which we still use to this day. Sadley, JP passed away in 2018 from ALS but his kindness and generosity in sharing his knowledge will be forever embedded in my heart.
Using this same recipe, we crafted a silky, slow-cooked caramel that strikes the perfect balance between buttery richness and just a touch of sea salt. The texture is smooth and fluid, designed to melt into the palate and linger just long enough to let the other flavors unfold.
To complement the caramel, we selected roasted pecans for their warm, toasty crunch and natural sweetness. We wanted the nut component to feel generous and authentic, adding not just texture but a deep, earthy note that rounds out the flavor. Their subtle bitterness plays beautifully against the sweetness of the caramel, creating a balanced, layered experience.
Encasing it all is our premium dark chocolate—a bold, rich shell with just the right amount of boldness to counterbalance the caramel’s sweetness and enhance the nuttiness of the pecans. Each bite of this bon bon begins with a satisfying snap, followed by a cascade of smooth caramel and roasted pecan, finishing with the deep, luxurious notes of dark chocolate.
Our chocolate color-artists brought this piece to life using green and brown. These colors are, naturally, an ode to the animal from which turtles get their name, but reimagined through the lens of Artistry in Chocolate®.
Crafting our Caramel Turtle has been a celebration of indulgence, tradition, and refinement. It’s a confection designed to deliver comfort and sophistication in equal measure—perfect for gifting, sharing, or treating yourself to a little timeless luxury.
