Indulge in the delightful symphony of flavors with our irresistibly crispy and chewy Pecan Caramel Clusters. These delectable treats are a perfect blend of sweet, buttery caramel, crunchy pecans, and a hint of salt. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by a burst of rich caramel flavor, complemented by the nutty goodness of pecans. Best of all, these clusters are incredibly easy to make and require only 5 basic ingredients.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through two foolproof recipes for creating these irresistible treats. Our classic Pecan Caramel Clusters recipe yields a batch of golden-brown clusters that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. If you're looking for a fun twist, our Chocolate Pecan Caramel Clusters recipe adds a layer of decadent chocolate, creating a delightful combination that will leave you craving more.
With step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, we'll ensure that your Pecan Caramel Clusters turn out perfectly every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's embark on a journey of culinary delight!
CHOCOLATE PECAN CARAMEL CLUSTERS
Steps:
- For the caramel: Mix 2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring just until the sugar dissolves. Cook, swirling the pan (do not stir), until the mixture is light amber and a candy thermometer registers 320 degrees, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat; slowly whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream, then 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Return to low heat and whisk until smooth.
- Stir 1 1/3 cups chopped nuts into the warm caramel; cool until the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape. Drop spoonfuls onto an oiled parchment-lined baking sheet; let set. Top with melted chocolate and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
CHOCOLATE-CARAMEL PECAN CLUSTERS
Sweet, chewy and crunchy, all at the same time -- these bite-size treats go perfectly with a cup of coffee after a meal.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Dessert & Treats Recipes
Time 45m
Yield Makes 1 dozen
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Arrange pecans in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet; toast in oven until fragrant, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven (leave oven on); set aside 36 pecans on baking sheet. Finely chop remaining pecans (for about 1/4 cup); set aside.
- When pecans are cool enough to handle, make 12 clusters by arranging 2 pecans vertically, side by side, below 1 pecan placed horizontally. Gently flatten each caramel; place 1 on top of each cluster. Bake clusters 5 minutes. Remove from oven (leave oven on).
- Place 1 piece of chocolate on top of each cluster. Return to oven; bake until chocolate begins to melt, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from oven. With the back of a spoon, gently spread chocolate over caramel without completely covering it.
- Sprinkle clusters with reserved chopped pecans. Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes. Bring to room temperature before serving.
PECAN CARAMEL CLUSTERS
A box of this mouthwatering homemade candy does an outstanding job of showing your affection on Valentine's Day or any time. The recipe comes from Janice Price of Lexington, Kentucky, who notes, "These are delicious and so easy to make."-Janice Price, Lexington, Kentucky
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Desserts
Time 25m
Yield about 2 pounds.
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels, water and butter. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 3 to 3-1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Stir in pecans. , Drop by tablespoonfuls onto greased baking sheets. Freeze for 15-20 minutes or until set., In a microwave-safe bowl, combine candy coatings. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 15 seconds; stir until smooth. Dip caramel clusters in coating; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Chill until firm.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 152 calories, Fat 10g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 3mg cholesterol, Sodium 40mg sodium, Carbohydrate 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 1g protein.
CARAMEL PECAN CLUSTERS
I make lots of candies and I often add a few ingredients or leave some out. My great-nephew, Josh, is my taste-tester, and this recipe is among his favorites. It seems that my snack jar is always going on empty, but this gives me great joy. -Marcille Groenke Minneapolis, Minnesota
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Desserts
Time 15m
Yield 6 clusters.
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- On a greased baking sheet, arrange pecans in six clusters of five pecans each. Place a caramel on each cluster. Bake at 300° for 4-5 minutes or until caramels are melted., Top each with a chocolate square. Bake 1 minute longer or until chocolate is melted. Spread the chocolate over caramel until smooth. Remove from pan to cool on a wire rack.
Nutrition Facts :
NANCY'S CHOCOLATE, CARAMEL & PECAN CLUSTERS
Steps:
- 1. Line a baking sheet with wax paper; set aside. In a microwave, melt 1 cup chocolate chips ( about 1 1/2 minutes) stir until smooth. Drop chocolate by tablespoon onto prepared baking sheet.
- 2. Immediately place one pecan halve on top of each; Place the caramels in a 1 quart microwave-safe dish; add cream. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2 minutes, stirring once. Spoon by teaspoon on top of each piece.
- 3. Melt the remaining chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Spread over caramel. Then I like to drizzle the remaining caramel over each piece
Tips:
- For a richer caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If the caramel forms a hard ball, it is ready.
- Be careful not to overcook the caramel, as it can quickly burn.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup easier.
- Work quickly when dipping the pecans in the caramel, as it will start to harden quickly.
- If you want to add other ingredients to your clusters, such as chocolate chips or nuts, do so after dipping the pecans in the caramel.
- Store the pecan caramel clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion:
Pecan caramel clusters are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. They are also a great gift idea. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying snack that everyone will love. So next time you are looking for a sweet treat, give pecan caramel clusters a try. You won't be disappointed.
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