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
Scale
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.
