Indulge your sweet tooth with the irresistible combination of pecans and caramel in this homemade Pecan Caramel Candy. These bite-sized delights feature crunchy, buttery pecans encased in a rich layer of smooth caramel, creating a treat that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying as a special treat. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this decadent candy in your own kitchen.

Pecan Caramel Candy is a delightful confection that marries the nutty goodness of pecans with the luscious sweetness of caramel. This classic pairing results in a treat that satisfies both the crunchy and chewy cravings, making it a favorite for holidays, celebrations, or any time you desire a luxurious sweet indulgence.

 

Ingredients: Building Blocks of Sweet Bliss

For the Pecan Caramel Candy:

• 2 cups pecans, halves or chopped
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For Coating (Optional):

• 8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted
• Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

 

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Sweet Perfection

1. Prepare Pecans:

• If using whole pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

2. Line the Pan:

• Line a square or rectangular baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

3. Make the Caramel:

• In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously to combine.
• Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage).
• Once at the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

4. Add Pecans:

• Quickly fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the caramel mixture.

5. Pour into the Pan:

• Pour the pecan caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

6. Cool:

• Allow the candy to cool at room temperature until set. This may take a few hours or overnight.

7. Cut into Pieces:

• Once fully set, lift the caramel slab from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut it into bite-sized squares or rectangles.

8. Optional Chocolate Coating:

• For an extra layer of decadence, dip each caramel square into melted chocolate, coating it partially or entirely. Place the dipped squares on parchment paper to allow the chocolate to set.

9. Sprinkle Sea Salt (Optional):

• If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate-coated caramel for a gourmet touch.

10. Serve or Gift:

• Once the chocolate is fully set, your Pecan Caramel Candy is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it on a dessert platter or package it in decorative boxes for a delightful gift.

 

Tips for Perfect Pecan Caramel Candy: Mastering Sweet Elegance

• Temperature Precision: Using a candy thermometer is crucial to achieving the right consistency. The soft-ball stage (240°F) ensures a chewy and luscious caramel.
• Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on them while toasting to prevent burning.
• Chocolate Choices: Experiment with different types of chocolate for coating, such as dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate, to suit your taste preferences.
• Sea Salt Enhancement: The addition of a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating enhances the flavor profile, providing a perfect balance to the sweetness.
• Cutting Tips: For clean and neat cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife between cuts to ensure smooth edges.
• Storage: Store the Pecan Caramel Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’ve added chocolate, store it in a cool place to prevent melting.
• Gift Packaging: Arrange the candy in decorative boxes, tie with a ribbon, and share the joy with friends and family.

In conclusion, Pecan Caramel Candy is a symphony of sweetness and crunch, a confection that elevates the classic combination of pecans and caramel to new heights. Whether enjoyed as a personal treat or shared with loved ones, these decadent candies are sure to bring delight to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the art of candy-making, and savor the luxurious blend of pecans and caramel in every bite.