Description
Indulgent sea salted praline pecan clusters combine rich caramel and crunchy pecans into an irresistible Southern treat. Sweet meets salty in this elegant confection that promises pure pleasure for chocolate and nut enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (200 g) pecan halves, toasted
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
Sweet and Syrup Components:
- ¼ cup (60 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Finishing Ingredients:
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1 cup (180 g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (optional, for coating)
Instructions
- Carefully roast pecan halves in a preheated oven at 350F (175C), spreading them evenly on a baking sheet. Toast for 7-10 minutes until they release a rich, nutty aroma. Allow pecans to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Create the praline caramel by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Incorporate brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup, stirring consistently. Cook the mixture until it reaches the soft-ball stage (240F/115C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and gently fold in vanilla extract and sea salt, creating a glossy, smooth caramel sauce.
- Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Construct small clusters by arranging 4-5 toasted pecan halves in compact groups. Generously drizzle the warm praline caramel over each cluster, ensuring complete and even coating of the nuts.
- For an optional decadent touch, melt chocolate chips in short microwave intervals, stirring between each interval until achieving a silky consistency. Elegantly drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel-coated clusters or carefully dip cluster bottoms into the chocolate.
- While the caramel or chocolate remains warm, delicately sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cluster, enhancing the complex flavor profile with a subtle salty contrast.
- Allow clusters to cool and solidify completely at room temperature or expedite the process by chilling in the refrigerator. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container, where they will maintain their crisp texture for up to one week.
Notes
- Toasting pecans intensifies their natural nutty flavor and provides a satisfying crunch, creating a more complex taste profile for the clusters.
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans and ensure they are evenly spread during toasting to prevent burning and achieve consistent golden-brown color.
- Control caramel temperature precisely with a candy thermometer to prevent burning or undercooking, which can affect texture and taste.
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar for different flavor nuances and dietary preferences.
- For a gluten-free version, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially corn syrup and chocolate chips.
- Keep clusters stored in a cool, dry place to maintain their crisp texture and prevent caramel from becoming sticky.
- Create variation by using different nuts like almonds or cashews, offering unique flavor combinations and textural experiences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg