Caramel Pecan Clusters – Experience the indulgence of the incredibly delicious world of Caramel Pecan Clusters! This quintessential American confection combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of pecans resulting in a truly delightful treat, for those with a penchant for all things sweet. Whether you’re looking to elevate your holiday gatherings present a gift or simply pamper your loved ones with a delectable delight these clusters are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Our key ingredients. Brown sugar, cream and toasted pecans. Harmonize beautifully to create a symphony of flavors.
I can still vividly recall the first occasion I created these delectable Caramel Pecan Clusters. It was on a chilly evening when I yearned to surprise my family with something. The captivating aroma of caramelizing sugar and roasting pecans wafted through our kitchen instantly captivating my husband and child who approached with wonder and eager anticipation. The initial bite was magic in their joyous expressions that spoke volumes. Since that occasion this recipe has become an adored tradition, in our household. An embodiment of warmth and affection.
What makes this Caramel Pecan Clusters truly special?
Our Caramel Pecan Clusters transcend candies; they embody the enchantment behind treats. Each cluster is crafted with care using yet exquisite ingredients that deliver an opulent and indulgent taste experience. The rich and sweet flavor of the sugar, along with the indulgent heavy cream, complemented by the toasted pecans creates a unique taste, in these clusters. Whether you’re enjoying them with your family or serving them at a gathering these treats are loved by everyone because of their versatility and deliciousness.
What You Need To Make This Caramel Pecan Clusters Recipe?
Brown Sugar: This isn’t just your sugar; it’s the essence of our clusters. Dixie Crystals Brown Sugar brings a sweetness of molasses, which forms the heart of our caramel. It’s, like wrapping yourself in a blanket on an evening. Comforting and familiar.
Light Corn Syrup: The hero that ensures smoothness. It prevents crystallization guaranteeing that our caramel is as silky as a fluttering ribbon in the breeze.
Kosher Salt: Just a pinch but oh, how it enhances the flavors! Like a sprinkle of enchantment it creates a balance of sweetness. Adds an understated sophistication.
Heavy Cream: The cream is what dreams are made of. It transforms our caramel into a delight, akin to clouds of flavor gently embracing your taste buds.
Unsalted Butter: This is indulgence at its finest. It introduces velvety richness that elevates each cluster from being candy to becoming an experience.
Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla is like the brushstroke, on an artist’s canvas. It completes the masterpiece. Its warm and aromatic essence serves as the finishing touch.
Toasted Chopped Pecans: These aren’t any pecans; they’re the gems adorning our clusters. When you toast them it brings out a range of nutty and earthy flavors. It also adds a texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy caramel.
Steps To Make Caramel Pecan Clusters:
Step 1: Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or using a silicone baking mat. This small preparation step will make things easier later on.
Step 2: In a pot, with sides combine sugar, light corn syrup and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir gently over heat ensuring that everything melts evenly without any unpleasant burnt surprises.
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Step 3: Keep an eye out for bubbles. Slowly drizzle in the cream while continuing to stir. It’s like a dance, in the kitchen making sure the bubbling doesn’t stop.
Step 4: Now it’s time to add the butter. Keep stirring to achieve that smooth texture.
Step 5: Remember patience is key here. Continue stirring until your candy thermometer reaches the number; 245°F. It usually takes 15 to 20 minutes but trust me every second is worth it.
Step 6: Remove the pot from heat. Quickly stir in some vanilla essence and those aromatic toasted pecans.
Step 7: Using a scoop or spoon drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto your baking sheet. The caramel will naturally spread a bit. That’s part of its charm.
Step 8: Once you’ve scooped everything out gently press each cluster so they are taller than they are wide. Alternatively if you allow the blend to cool for a while prior, to scooping make sure to act to prevent it from solidifying.
Tip:
The key, to creating delicious Caramel Pecan Clusters lies in the timing involved especially when it comes to cooking the caramel. Caramel can be quite temperamental; it requires your attention. The crucial trick is to monitor the candy thermometer and promptly remove the caramel from the heat once it reaches 245°F. This specific temperature, referred to as the “firm ball stage ” plays a role. It ensures that your caramel has the consistency – not too hard, not too soft – perfect for scooping and shaping into clusters. If you cook it for long the caramel becomes overly rigid and prone to breaking. On the other hand if it’s undercooked it won’t set properly resulting in runny clusters. Therefore remain vigilant with that thermometer. Be prepared to act. This meticulous attention, to detail is what distinguishes a caramel cluster from a great one. Offering an unforgettable texture and flavor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different nuts?
Of course! You have the flexibility to try out types of nuts. You can explore using almonds, walnuts or even a combination of nuts.
How do I store these clusters?
To preserve the freshness of these clusters it is recommended to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way they can maintain their quality for, up to a week.
Can I make these clusters ahead of time?
Certainly! These clusters are ideal for preparing ahead of time for gatherings or, as presents. Just ensure that you store them correctly and they will remain fresh and delicious.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Caramel Pecan Clusters
Ingredients
- 1 c Brown Sugar
- 1 c Light Corn Syrup
- ¼ tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 c Heavy Cream
- ¼ c Unsalted Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 c Toasted Chopped Pecans
Instructions
- Line a cookie sheet, with parchment paper. Use a silicone baking mat.
- In a pot with high ides mix together sugar, light corn syrup and kosher salt. Heat it over medium-high heat while stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Pour in the cream while continuously stirring to ensure that the mixture keeps bubbling.
- Stir in the butter while continuing to stir the mixture.
- Keep stirring until the mixture reaches 245°F on a candy thermometer. This process usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove, from heat. Quickly stir in vanilla extract and toasted chopped pecans.
- Scoop out portions of caramel mixture onto your sheet. Allow it to spread naturally. Then gently press each cluster into your desired shape.
- Let the clusters cool down completely and set before serving them.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
