Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate sweet-meets-salty snack, let me introduce you to Salted Caramel Pecans. These glossy, golden bites are pure magic: crunchy pecans wrapped in a buttery caramel hug, finished with just the right touch of sea salt. They’re dangerously snackable, perfect for sharing at gatherings, or gifting in a cute jar—but fair warning, you may want to keep the whole batch for yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Salted Caramel Pecans is all about using simple, quality ingredients that each bring something special to the table. The buttery caramel coats the pecans perfectly, while a sprinkle of sea salt makes each bite pop with flavor and crunch.
- Pecan halves: The star of the show, pecans add rich, nutty crunch and toast up beautifully in caramel.
- Granulated sugar: This is the backbone of your caramel—sweet and essential for that glossy coating.
- Unsalted butter: Butter brings a creamy, rich flavor that melds perfectly with sugar for a luscious caramel.
- Heavy cream: A splash of cream gives the caramel that dreamy, silky texture and just the right thickness.
- Vanilla extract: A few drops of vanilla add warmth and depth, making the caramel even more irresistible.
- Sea salt: Sea salt balances the sweetness and adds that signature salted finish—don’t skip it!
- Extra sea salt (optional): For a little extra flair, sprinkle more on top for a gourmet touch.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pecans
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This keeps your Salted Caramel Pecans from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It also gives you a landing spot for the hot, sticky pecans once they’re coated in caramel.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and unsalted butter. Stir steadily as the butter melts, and keep an eye on it—the mixture will start to bubble after a couple of minutes. That’s your cue you’re on the right track!
Step 3: Add the Cream
Once the sugar and butter are bubbling nicely, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. This step helps the caramel become creamy and rich. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring the whole time, until it thickens just a bit—think warm caramel sauce consistency.
Step 4: Flavor and Salt
Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. This is what gives your Salted Caramel Pecans that signature flavor—don’t be shy with the salt, it’s what makes these addictive!
Step 5: Coat the Pecans
Add your pecan halves right into the saucepan. Toss them gently but thoroughly, making sure each piece gets a generous coating of caramel. It’s okay if things get a little sticky, that’s part of the fun!
Step 6: Cool and Set
Spread the caramel-coated pecans in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Let them cool completely at room temperature. As they sit, the caramel will set up into a glossy, finger-licking shell. Before serving, sprinkle with a little extra sea salt if you like that extra pop.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecans
Garnishes
A light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving brings out the caramel notes and adds a gourmet finish. If you want to dress them up even more, try a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a hint of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
Side Dishes
Salted Caramel Pecans pair well with cheese boards, especially creamy brie or sharp cheddar. They’re also fantastic tossed into salads with leafy greens, apples, and goat cheese for a sweet crunch, or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by packaging Salted Caramel Pecans in mason jars tied with ribbon for a heartfelt homemade gift. Scatter them over cakes or pies for an eye-catching edible decoration. Or simply serve them in a pretty bowl at your next gathering—they’ll disappear in no time!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Salted Caramel Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure they’re completely cool before storing so they stay crunchy and fresh.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, Salted Caramel Pecans freeze beautifully. Place cooled pecans in a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before eating for the best texture.
Reheating
While these pecans are delicious at room temp, you can revive them by spreading on a baking sheet and warming for 5 minutes at 300°F. This brings back that just-made crispness—perfect for when you want to impress guests or freshen up leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While Salted Caramel Pecans are a classic, this recipe works wonderfully with walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just adjust the roasting time a bit if using smaller nuts.
How do I keep the caramel from burning?
Stir constantly and keep the heat at medium. Don’t walk away from the stove—sugar can go from golden to burnt quickly. If you notice the caramel darkening too fast, lower the heat right away.
Are these pecans gluten-free?
Yes, Salted Caramel Pecans are naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your vanilla extract to be sure it’s certified gluten-free if you need to avoid all traces of gluten.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, you can swap the butter for a good-quality vegan butter and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still get that amazing sweet-salty crunch.
What’s the best way to gift Salted Caramel Pecans?
Fill small mason jars or decorative tins with the pecans, add a festive ribbon and a handwritten note. They make the perfect hostess gift, holiday treat, or thoughtful favor for any occasion!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends, treat your family, or just enjoy a little sweet indulgence, Salted Caramel Pecans are the answer. They’re so simple to make, but truly unforgettable—give them a try and I promise, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Caramel Pecans are a delightful blend of crunchy pecan halves coated in a rich, buttery caramel infused with sea salt. This sweet and salty snack is perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply as a delicious treat to enjoy anytime. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, these pecans offer a perfect balance of flavors with a smooth caramel glaze.
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping if desired)
Nuts
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to catch and cool the caramel-coated pecans.
- Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture starts to bubble, usually around 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes a smooth caramel sauce.
- Flavor Caramel: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt to enhance the caramel’s flavor and add a subtle salty contrast.
- Coat Pecans: Add the pecan halves into the caramel sauce. Toss well to evenly coat every piece with the luscious caramel.
- Cool Pecans: Spread the pecans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature so the caramel sets firmly.
- Optional Topping & Serve: Sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for enhanced flavor if desired. Once set, serve immediately or store.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- For extra flair and crunch, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes before coating with caramel.
- Salted caramel pecans make a delicious topping for salads, ice cream, or desserts, and are great as holiday snacks or gifts.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
