Indulge in the decadent world of homemade sweets with our irresistible Pecan Caramel Candies. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful treats blend the rich flavors of pecans and caramel into bite-sized delights that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth looking to elevate their homemade candy game. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat, these Pecan Caramel Candies are guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, even beginners can whip up a batch of these decadent candies with ease.
Why It’s Great
What sets these Pecan Caramel Candies apart is their perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The combination of rich caramel and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Plus, making your own candies at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Say goodbye to store-bought candies and hello to homemade goodness!
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering Pecan Caramel Candies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Pecan Caramel Candies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the pecan halves evenly on the prepared baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, continue to cook the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the toasted pecans, spreading it into an even layer. Let cool completely.
- Once cooled, break the caramel into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make these Pecan Caramel Candies, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Pecan Caramel Candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can also freeze the candies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other nuts such as almonds or walnuts for the pecans to create your own unique variation of these candies.
Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe to make a larger batch of Pecan Caramel Candies. Just be sure to use a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients.
Q: Can I add chocolate to these candies? A: Of course! You can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled caramel and pecans for an extra indulgent twist.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair these Pecan Caramel Candies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich flavors of the caramel and pecans complement the bold flavors of coffee or the subtle notes of tea perfectly.
Conclusion
Indulge your sweet tooth with our irresistible Pecan Caramel Candies. With their perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, these homemade treats are sure to become a favorite in your household. Share the recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration. Happy baking!