Delicious Chewy Homemade Caramel Pecan Clusters
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Create a festive treat with these homemade caramel pecan clusters that are perfect for the holiday season. Combining rich, chewy caramel with crunchy pecans, these clusters are a delightful addition to your Christmas cookie platter or holiday gatherings. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they are sure to become a family favorite.
These caramel pecan clusters are not just a treat, they are a tradition in our family. Every holiday season, we gather in the kitchen to make these sweet and crunchy delights.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
These caramel pecan clusters not only taste delicious, but they also exude the warmth and joy of the holiday season. The combination of rich, buttery caramel and crunchy pecans creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these clusters add a special touch to any gathering. Whether it's a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or a festive cookie exchange, these treats are bound to impress.
Moreover, their charming appearance makes them an aesthetically pleasing addition to your holiday treats. Once arranged on a platter, these chewy clusters will stand out, encouraging everyone to dig in. Their glossy caramel coating and golden pecan pieces give a lovely finish that complements any festive table setting.
Easy to Make and Customize
One of the best aspects of these homemade caramel pecan clusters is their simplicity. With just a few straightforward ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that rivals gourmet confections. The recipe does not require advanced baking skills or specialized equipment, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. In less than an hour, you can whip up these delightful clusters and have them ready to share or savor yourself.
Furthermore, the caramel pecan clusters are highly customizable. Feel free to mix in other ingredients, such as mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra kick. This versatility allows you to adjust the clusters to suit your taste or the preferences of your guests, making them an even more appealing holiday treat.
Storing and Gifting
Storing your homemade caramel pecan clusters is a breeze. Once they are completely cooled and hardened, simply place them in an airtight container, where they can last for about a week at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to separate the clusters with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
These clusters also make excellent gifts during the holiday season. Package them in decorative boxes or jars and give them to friends and family as thoughtful homemade gifts. Your loved ones will appreciate the time and effort you put into creating such a delightful treat, and it's a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 cup of pecans, chopped
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Ensure you have everything ready before starting.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your yummy clusters:
Prepare the Pecan Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chopped pecans and set aside.
Make the Caramel
In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches a deep golden color. This should take about 10 minutes.
Combine and Form Clusters
Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot caramel over the pecans and mix until well-coated. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming clusters.
Cool and Serve
Allow the clusters to cool and harden completely before serving. Enjoy!
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutritional Value
While these caramel pecan clusters are a treat, it's essential to enjoy them in moderation. They provide a good source of healthy fats from the pecans, which can be beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the recipe is free from artificial ingredients, ensuring a more wholesome indulgence compared to many store-bought candies.
Each cluster packs a satisfying crunch and rich caramel flavor, making them a delightful, albeit indulgent, snack. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your sugar intake, but don’t forget to treat yourself and enjoy each bite!
Perfect Pairings
These chewy caramel pecan clusters pair wonderfully with various beverages, enhancing your dessert experience. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of coffee or a steaming mug of hot cocoa. The richness of the caramel complements the flavors of coffee, while the nuttiness of the pecans adds a delightful texture to your drink.
For an even more festive touch, serve the clusters with a glass of spiced apple cider or a holiday-themed cocktail. The combination of flavors is sure to elevate any holiday celebration, encouraging guests to linger and enjoy the delightful atmosphere you've created.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Delicious Chewy Homemade Caramel Pecan Clusters
Create a festive treat with these homemade caramel pecan clusters that are perfect for the holiday season. Combining rich, chewy caramel with crunchy pecans, these clusters are a delightful addition to your Christmas cookie platter or holiday gatherings. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 clusters
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup of pecans, chopped
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the chopped pecans and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches a deep golden color. This should take about 10 minutes.
Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot caramel over the pecans and mix until well-coated. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming clusters.
Allow the clusters to cool and harden completely before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 1g