If you’re looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch, the Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe is your new best friend. These glossy, buttery pecans coated in rich caramel and sprinkled with sea salt make an irresistible treat whether you’re gifting them, topping your salad, or simply snacking straight from the jar. Easy to make but so impactful in taste, they bring a touch of homemade magic to any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe is as simple as it gets, yet each one plays a special role. From the nutty richness of pecans to the deep buttery caramel flavor, every component contributes to that perfect balance of textures and tastes.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Opt for fresh, high-quality pecans for the best crunch and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: The base of your caramel, it melts down to create that luscious coating.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the caramel blend.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps the sugar dissolve evenly to prevent burning.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the caramel flavor beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling): Provides the essential salty counterpoint that makes these pecans addictive.
- Parchment paper: For cooling, prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will be where you transfer the hot, caramel-coated pecans to cool down and crisp up without sticking. Having this ready ahead of time makes the rest of the process smoother.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Base
In a large nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, water, and vanilla extract. Stir gently and continuously until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture starts bubbling. This steady bubbling signals that your caramel is forming perfectly without burning.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Add the pecan halves to the bubbling caramel sauce. Stir constantly to ensure every pecan is evenly coated. Keep cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid thickens into a glossy caramel that clings beautifully to each nut. This step takes patience but is crucial for that signature shine and texture.
Step 4: Add the Salt and Cool
Sprinkle the sea salt into the skillet and give everything a good stir to distribute the salty flakes evenly. Then immediately spread the pecans out onto the baking sheet so they don’t clump together as they cool. While they are still warm, feel free to sprinkle a bit more sea salt on top for an extra pop of flavor.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
These pecans make a fantastic garnish for desserts like ice cream, tarts, or even cakes. Just a handful scattered on top adds crunch, shine, and that perfect hint of sweet and salty complexity that makes each bite memorable.
Side Dishes
Try pairing Salted Caramel Pecans with fresh green salads or roasted vegetables for a playful contrast in flavor and texture. They especially shine alongside bitter or creamy components like kale, goat cheese, or pears.
Creative Ways to Present
Package them in decorative jars or small cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for heartwarming homemade gifts. You can also mix them into yogurt parfaits or sprinkle them on oatmeal bowls to add some decadent crunch to your morning routine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps maintain their crispiness and keeps the caramel from becoming sticky or soggy.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, Salted Caramel Pecans freeze beautifully. Place them in a sealed freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for fresh-tasting pecans anytime you desire.
Reheating
If the pecans feel a bit soft after storage, warming them briefly in a low oven (about 250°F) for 5-7 minutes will restore their crispness and refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, and cashews also work wonderfully with this salted caramel coating. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the nut’s size and density for even caramelization.
What’s the best way to prevent pecans from clumping?
Spreading the coated pecans out immediately on parchment paper helps a lot. Use a fork or spatula to separate any nuts sticking together before the caramel hardens completely.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan-friendly sugar to keep this recipe vegan while still deliciously sweet and crunchy.
How do I get the caramel so glossy and smooth?
Stirring continuously over medium heat and making sure the sugar fully dissolves before adding pecans helps tremendously. Avoid high heat or rushing the process to prevent graininess.
Can I add spices to the salted caramel pecans?
Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor and add a cozy or spicy twist to this already fantastic treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the combination of caramel and sea salt that makes the Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sprinkling them on your favorite dessert or enjoying them straight from the jar, these pecans bring joy in every bite. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it a staple for your snacking and gifting adventures!
Print
Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these irresistibly sweet and salty Salted Caramel Pecans, perfectly coated in a rich, glossy caramel and finished with a touch of sea salt. This quick and easy snack is ideal for holiday treats, salads, or a crunchy, flavorful bite anytime.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
- parchment paper for cooling
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool the pecans later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, water, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble gently.
- Add Pecans and Coat: Add the pecan halves to the bubbling mixture and stir constantly to coat them evenly with the caramel mixture, ensuring each pecan is fully covered.
- Cook Caramel: Continue to cook and stir for 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid thickens into a glossy caramel that clings beautifully to the pecans.
- Season with Salt: Sprinkle in the sea salt and stir to evenly distribute the salt through the caramel-coated pecans.
- Cool Pecans: Immediately transfer the coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out to prevent clumping. While still warm, sprinkle with additional sea salt if desired.
- Set and Store: Let the pecans cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or storing them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.
- These caramel pecans make excellent holiday gifts, salad toppings, or a delicious snack anytime.
- For a deeper, nuttier flavor, lightly toast the pecans before coating them with caramel.
