If you adore the perfect balance between sweet and salty, crunchy and buttery, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe. It’s a simple yet utterly addictive treat that combines toasted pecans enrobed in a luscious, glossy salted caramel glaze. This snack delivers a mouthwatering contrast where each bite melts with rich caramel sweetness, lifted just right by a sprinkle of sea salt. Whether you’re looking for a festive gift idea, a crunchy topping, or a snack to savor anytime, these salted caramel pecans have got you covered with their irresistible flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe is refreshing in its simplicity. Each element plays a key role, from providing the rich buttery base to the perfect salty finish that makes these pecans unforgettable.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Choose fresh, plump pecans for maximum crunch and flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: The essential sweetness that caramelizes into that beautiful golden glaze.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the silky caramel coating.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps dissolve the sugar evenly and aids in caramelizing without burning.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the caramel’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling): Balances the sweetness with just the right salty kick and adds that signature sparkle.
- Parchment paper for cooling: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup so much easier.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little step ensures the pecans will cool without sticking or breaking apart. Having this ready before cooking means you’ll be able to transfer the sticky caramel-coated pecans without any hassle.
Step 2: Start the Caramel
In a large nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, water, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture starts to bubble. Watching the caramel form is a bit like magic, and that bubbling signals you’re on the right track to a smooth, luscious caramel coating.
Step 3: Coat the Pecans
Once your caramel base is bubbling, add the pecan halves. Stir constantly to ensure that every single pecan gets beautifully coated in that glossy caramel. This part requires patience and attention; the stirring helps prevent burning and lets the caramel thicken evenly as it clings to the nuts.
Step 4: Add Salt and Cook to Perfection
After about 5 to 7 minutes of stirring, the caramel will thicken and become shiny and sticky. At this moment, sprinkle in the sea salt and give everything a final stir. This salt is what will make this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe truly shine by cutting through the sweetness and enhancing flavor complexity.
Step 5: Cool Your Pecans
Immediately pour the caramel-coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out to prevent clumping and, while still warm, sprinkle with a little extra sea salt if you love that salty crunch. Let them cool completely before handling, as the caramel needs to set for that perfect snap.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a light dusting of cinnamon can elevate your salted caramel pecans from delicious to gourmet. These little finishing touches complement the caramel’s sweetness and add visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These pecans make a fantastic crunchy topping for creamy desserts like ice cream or cheesecake. They also bring a wonderful contrast to savory salads or roasted vegetable platters, adding texture and a burst of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Pack these salted caramel pecans in decorative jars for heartfelt homemade gifts. Alternatively, use them as edible craft garnish on cakes or cupcakes to impress guests with both taste and style. They’re also fabulous tossed into your morning oatmeal or yogurt parfait for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay perfectly crunchy and delicious for up to a week, making them ideal for making ahead for parties or snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your salted caramel pecans longer, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag. When properly wrapped, they maintain their texture and flavor for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them fully before enjoying.
Reheating
To refresh the pecans’ crunch and caramel shine, warm them briefly in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for 5 minutes. This gentle reheating brings back that freshly made taste without melting the caramel coatings.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews would work wonderfully with this caramel coating. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size and oil content of the nuts.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious treat for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
How can I make these pecans less sweet?
Reducing the sugar by a small amount is possible, but keep in mind that sugar is critical for caramelization. Alternatively, slightly increase the sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Can I toast pecans before coating them?
Definitely! Toasting pecans lightly before making the caramel adds a deeper, nuttier flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
Why do I need to stir constantly during cooking?
Continuous stirring prevents the caramel from burning and ensures the pecans get evenly coated with a smooth, glossy caramel rather than clumps of cooked sugar.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about homemade sweets, especially when they hit that perfect sweet and salty note like this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe. Once you make these, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them, from snacks to gifts to luxurious dessert toppings. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how simple yet indulgent it feels with every crunchy, caramel-coated bite!
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
These Salted Caramel Pecans are a perfect blend of sweet and salty, glazed in a rich, buttery caramel coating with a hint of vanilla and sea salt. Ideal as a snack, salad topping, or thoughtful holiday gift, this simple stovetop recipe delivers crunchy, flavorful pecans with a glossy caramel finish.
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 aside to cool the pecans once they’re coated.
- Combine sugar and liquids. In a large nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, unsalted butter, water, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble, creating the caramel base.
- Add pecans. Add the pecan halves to the bubbling caramel mixture. Stir constantly to evenly coat the pecans with the caramel.
- Cook the caramel coating. Continue cooking and stirring for 5 to 7 minutes until the caramel thickens to a glossy consistency that clings to the pecans.
- Season with sea salt. Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and stir to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the caramel-coated pecans.
- Cool the pecans. Immediately transfer the caramel-coated pecans onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out so they don’t clump together. If desired, sprinkle extra sea salt on top while still warm.
- Set before serving or storing. Allow the pecans to cool completely before serving or storing them. This helps the caramel set properly around the nuts.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crunch.
- These pecans make excellent holiday gifts, are great as salad toppings, or perfect for snacking on their own.
- For a deeper flavor, lightly toast the pecans before coating them with the caramel.
