Are you craving a decadent treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This caramel pecan chocolate candy recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy, making it an ideal homemade gift or a delightful self-indulgence. Forget those store-bought sweets – this easy recipe lets you craft a delicious and personalized candy experience from the comfort of your kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly satisfying confection!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
Making the Caramel:
- Prepare your pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Do not stir.
- Cook the caramel: Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a light amber color. This takes patience; don't rush it!
- Add cream and butter: Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up!). Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Assembling the Candy:
- Pour into pan: Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cool completely: Allow the caramel to cool completely and set at room temperature, for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight. This ensures a firm candy.
- Melt the chocolate: Once the caramel is set, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Coat the caramel: Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel and spread evenly.
- Chill and cut: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Once firm, lift the candy from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Tips for Success:
- Toasting the pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Working with caramel: Caramel can be very hot. Use caution when handling it and avoid splashing.
- Don't overcook the caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel while it cooks to prevent burning. A light amber color is ideal.
- Using different nuts: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the melted chocolate for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
- Spiced Caramel: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Sugar: Around 25-30g
This is a rough estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This caramel pecan chocolate candy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, making it a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy-ish treats (in moderation!). It’s a fantastic quick dinner dessert, a fun project for homemade cooking, and undeniably one of the best recipes for a delicious dish. Enjoy!