If you’re on the hunt for a sweet and salty treat that’s irresistibly crunchy and bursting with rich flavor, you’ve got to try this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe. These glossy, caramel-coated pecans bring together buttery warmth, a touch of vanilla, and just the right amount of sea salt to make your taste buds dance. Whether you snack on them straight from the bowl or add them as a decadent topping, these pecans transform ordinary moments into something truly special. Plus, they’re delightfully easy to make and perfect for gifting or holiday entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret behind the perfect Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe. Each ingredient has a job, whether it’s adding sweetness, richness, or that all-important hint of salt to balance the flavors.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Toasted if possible for an extra layer of nutty flavor and crunch.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: The base for the caramel that coats every pecan with sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps create that silky caramel texture.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps dissolve the sugar evenly and prevents burning.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, making the caramel taste rich and inviting.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling): Balances the sweet with a sharp saltiness that elevates the entire recipe.
- Parchment paper: Needed for easy cooling and to prevent sticking.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will be the landing spot for your caramel-coated pecans and makes cleanup a breeze. Having this ready before you start cooking helps as the caramel hardens quickly, so you want to spread the pecans immediately once they’re coated.
Step 2: Combine and Heat Sugar, Butter, and Water
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add sugar, butter, and water. Stir constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture starts bubbling gently without burning. This is where patience pays off—watch for that beautiful glossy caramel color forming.
Step 3: Add Pecans and Coat
Once the caramel base is bubbling nicely and fully dissolved, toss in your pecan halves. Keep stirring for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the nuts soak up the caramel while the mixture thickens into a luscious, shiny coating. The aroma at this point is utterly divine!
Step 4: Flavor and Salt
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract along with the sea salt. This step heightens the flavor complexity—vanilla adds sweetness depth while the salty kick prevents the caramel from being cloying.
Step 5: Spread and Cool
Immediately transfer the sticky pecans onto your prepared parchment-lined sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. While still warm, sprinkle with a little extra sea salt to give each bite that perfect sweet-salty contrast. Let the pecans cool completely at room temperature until hardened, then gently break apart any clusters.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
These pecans are stunning as a topping. Sprinkle them over creamy desserts like vanilla ice cream or cheesecake for a delightful crunch and flavor punch. Adding a few to a mixed green salad with goat cheese and dried cranberries turns an everyday salad into a gourmet experience.
Side Dishes
Salted caramel pecans aren’t just a snack; they pair beautifully with soft cheeses and charcuterie boards. They bring warmth to roasted veggies or even a sweet complement to squash and root vegetable sides, enhancing both casual and elegant meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings or gift-giving, package salted caramel pecans in festive jars or small cellophane bags tied with ribbon. They’re also fantastic when tossed into homemade granola or used to top frosted cupcakes, providing that eye-catching shine and addictive texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your salted caramel pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, making them perfect to prep in advance for snacking or sharing.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled pecans in a sealed freezer bag or container, and they’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If the pecans lose some of their crispness, a quick warm-up in a low oven (around 250°F) for 5 minutes can help revive their crunch and bring back that fresh-cooked aroma. Be sure to cool them fully before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews also work wonderfully with this salted caramel coating. Just keep an eye on cooking times as some nuts roast faster than pecans.
What if my caramel mixture crystallizes?
This can happen if sugar doesn’t fully dissolve or if the pan isn’t cleaned properly before cooking. Stirring constantly and avoiding splashing sugar crystals on the pan edges helps prevent crystallization.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil to keep it dairy-free. The flavor might shift slightly, but it’s still delicious.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
Look for a bubbling, golden amber color and a syrupy consistency that thickly coats the pecans. Avoid letting it turn too dark, or it will become bitter.
Can I add spices for a twist?
Definitely try a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or even pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal spin on the Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe. These small additions add exciting new layers of flavor!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Salted Caramel Pecans Recipe enough if you want a quick yet extraordinary snack that feels like a treat every time. It’s comforting, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to whip up—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy moment solo. Once you try it, I bet you’ll be making these pecans over and over, just like me!
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
Delightfully sweet and salty, these Salted Caramel Pecans are perfectly coated in a glossy homemade caramel with a hint of sea salt. A simple stovetop recipe that results in crunchy, addictive nuts perfect for snacking, topping salads, or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- parchment paper for cooling
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool the caramel-coated pecans later.
- Cook Caramel: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and water. Stir constantly until the mixture starts bubbling and the sugar dissolves completely, forming a caramel base.
- Coat Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the caramel mixture and continue stirring for 5 to 7 minutes until the caramel thickens and evenly coats the pecans with a glossy finish.
- Flavor and Transfer: Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt to enhance flavor, then quickly transfer the pecans onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them into a single layer for even cooling.
- Finish and Cool: Immediately sprinkle extra sea salt over the pecans. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature until the caramel hardens. Once cooled, break apart any pecan clusters and store the coated nuts in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use toasted pecans to deepen the nutty flavor of the recipe.
- These candied pecans make an excellent snack, a crunchy salad topping, or a thoughtful holiday gift.
- For a spiced variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture for warmth and heat.
