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
Scale
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
