Description
Pecan Caramel Clusters are a quick and delicious homemade candy with toasted pecans, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate. Perfect for gifting or holiday treats.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups pecan halves
26 soft caramel candies (like Werther’s Original or Kraft)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil (optional)
Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Melt the Caramel: Combine the soft caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth (about 1 to 2 minutes total). Let it cool slightly to thicken.
- Assemble the Clusters: Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or placing a silicone baking mat on top.
- Add the Caramel: Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of the caramel mixture onto the center of each pecan cluster. Let them rest for 10 minutes to allow the caramel to firm.
- Melt the Chocolate: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in the oil for added shine, if using.
- Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel-topped pecan cluster, covering the caramel while letting some pecans remain visible.
- Optional Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each cluster for an extra flavor pop.
- Let Them Set: Let the clusters cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to speed up the process.
Notes
Tightly group pecans to hold caramel better
Allow caramel to cool slightly before spooning
Sea salt enhances flavor beautifully
Use a silicone mat for easy cleanup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 192
- Sugar: 12.98g
- Carbohydrates: 19.06g
- Protein: 3.37g