Description
Introducing the Sweet and Salty Pecan Delights—a delicious confection that balances the rich flavors of caramel with the crunchy texture of pecans, all finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the delightful contrast of sweet and salty in one bite. Whether you’re looking for a treat to impress at a party or a comforting snack for a night in, these pecan delights are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla or rum extract
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large sheet pan with wax paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray or softened butter. Set this aside for later use.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a deep, medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine pecan halves, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, butter, and the 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Make sure the bowl is deep enough to prevent any possible overflow during the boiling process.
Step 3: Microwave the Mixture
Microwave the ingredients on high for 6 1/2 minutes. Pause the microwave at the 3-minute mark to stir the mixture, then continue until the full time is up. Make sure to handle the bowl carefully as the mixture will be hot.
Step 4: Final Stir and Vanilla Extract Addition
Once microwaving is complete, stir the mixture well to ensure all pecans are evenly coated. If the caramel looks too runny, return it to the microwave for additional 1-minute increments. Let it sit for 10-15 seconds, then add the vanilla extract and stir again.
Step 5: Forming Clusters
Using a small cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop the caramel pecan clusters onto the prepared wax paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 6: Adding Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the tops of the clusters with a bit of sea salt. Allow them to cool at room temperature until set.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe makes approximately 15-20 pecan clusters. Total preparation time, including cooking, is about 20 minutes, with additional setting time of 15-30 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the pecan delights in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If in a particularly warm climate, refrigerate the clusters to prevent them from becoming too sticky.
- These treats do not require reheating; however, if you’ve stored them in the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Sweet and Salty Pecan Delights are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with decadent flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple microwave cooking, you can create a batch of these delicious candies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a festive treat or savored as a personal indulgence, these pecan delights are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Sweet and Salty Pecan Delights
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 15-20 pecan clusters 1x
Description
Introducing the Sweet and Salty Pecan Delights—a delicious confection that balances the rich flavors of caramel with the crunchy texture of pecans, all finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the delightful contrast of sweet and salty in one bite. Whether you’re looking for a treat to impress at a party or a comforting snack for a night in, these pecan delights are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla or rum extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large sheet pan with wax paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray or softened butter. Set this aside for later use.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a deep, medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine pecan halves, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, butter, and the 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Make sure the bowl is deep enough to prevent any possible overflow during the boiling process.
- Microwave the Mixture: Microwave the ingredients on high for 6 1/2 minutes. Pause the microwave at the 3-minute mark to stir the mixture, then continue until the full time is up. Make sure to handle the bowl carefully as the mixture will be hot.
- Final Stir and Vanilla Extract Addition: Once microwaving is complete, stir the mixture well to ensure all pecans are evenly coated. If the caramel looks too runny, return it to the microwave for additional 1-minute increments. Let it sit for 10-15 seconds, then add the vanilla extract and stir again.
- Forming Clusters: Using a small cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop the caramel pecan clusters onto the prepared wax paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Adding Finishing Touches: Sprinkle the tops of the clusters with a bit of sea salt. Allow them to cool at room temperature until set.