Decadent Chocolate Pecan Caramels
Indulge in the rich, creamy, and nutty flavor of these Decadent Chocolate Pecan Caramels. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with family and friends, this recipe combines the toasty crunch of pecans with a luscious chocolate layer and a velvety caramel base. The combination of brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla creates a delightfully chewy treat that's sure to please any sweet tooth. Follow this simple recipe to make approximately 40 delightful pieces that are ideal for any occasion.
40
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1 tablespoon (softened, for greasing)
butter
1 cup (softened, for cooking)
pecans
1 1/2 cups (coarsely chopped, toasted)
semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup (for topping)
brown sugar
2 cups (packed)
light corn syrup
1 cup
water
1/4 cup
sweetened condensed milk
1 (14 ounce) can
vanilla extract
2 teaspoons
Instructions
1
Prepare a 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil. Lightly butter the foil with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans and chocolate chips over the bottom of the prepared pan and set aside.
2
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the remaining 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the packed brown sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Continuously stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil.
3
Once the mixture reaches a boil, carefully stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Continue to cook while stirring constantly until the temperature reaches 248°F on a candy thermometer, indicating that it has reached the firm-ball stage.
4
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Avoid scraping the sides of the saucepan to keep the caramels smooth.
5
Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the pecans and chocolate chips in the prepared baking pan. Allow the caramel to cool completely at room temperature, which may take a few hours.
6
Once cooled, lift the caramel out of the pan using the foil, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Store the caramels in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Chocolate Pecan Caramels?
They are a rich and creamy candy treat combining a chewy caramel base with toasted pecans and a layer of semi-sweet chocolate.
How many pieces of candy does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 40 bite-sized pieces of caramel.
What size baking pan is needed?
You will need a 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan.
How should I prepare the pan for the caramels?
Line the pan with aluminum foil and lightly butter the foil with 1 tablespoon of softened butter to prevent sticking.
Do the pecans need any special preparation?
Yes, the 1 1/2 cups of pecans should be toasted and coarsely chopped for the best flavor and texture.
What kind of chocolate chips are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
What temperature must the caramel reach?
The mixture needs to reach 248°F on a candy thermometer, which is known as the firm-ball stage.
How much butter is required in total?
You will need a total of 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon of butter.
What kind of sugar is used for the caramel?
The recipe requires 2 cups of packed brown sugar.
Is corn syrup necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 1 cup of light corn syrup is used to ensure a smooth, chewy texture and prevent crystallization.
How much water is added to the caramel base?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of water mixed with the butter, sugar, and syrup.
When do I add the sweetened condensed milk?
Stir in the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk once the butter and sugar mixture reaches a gentle boil.
When is the vanilla extract added?
Stir in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract after removing the saucepan from the heat.
Should I stir the caramel while it cooks?
Yes, you should stir the mixture continuously while bringing it to a boil and while cooking it to the firm-ball stage.
Why shouldn't I scrape the sides of the saucepan?
Avoid scraping the sides when pouring the mixture to ensure the finished caramels remain perfectly smooth.
How are the layers of the candy assembled?
The chopped pecans and chocolate chips are sprinkled on the bottom of the pan, and the hot caramel is poured over them.
How long do the caramels need to cool?
The caramels should cool completely at room temperature, which may take several hours.
How do I remove the cooled caramels from the pan?
Lift the entire block of caramel out of the pan using the aluminum foil lining.
How should I store these homemade caramels?
Store the cut pieces in an airtight container at room temperature.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Yes, these decadent caramels are ideal for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Can I use a heavy-bottomed saucepan?
Yes, using a heavy-bottomed saucepan is recommended to prevent the caramel from scorching.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one piece, with the recipe yielding 40 total servings.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, a candy thermometer is essential to ensure the caramel reaches the correct 248°F temperature.
What happens if the caramel doesn't reach 248°F?
If the temperature is too low, the caramels will be too soft and may not hold their shape when cut.
What category of food is this recipe?
This recipe falls under the Candy category.
Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips?
While semi-sweet is recommended, you could use milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
Why is softened butter used on the foil?
Softened butter is easier to spread evenly over the foil to ensure the candy releases easily.
What texture should the finished caramels have?
The finished caramels should be delightfully chewy with a crunch from the toasted pecans.
Can I make these caramels in advance?
Yes, they keep well in an airtight container and can be made several days before serving.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the caramels?
Use a sharp, buttered knife to cut the cooled caramel block into bite-sized pieces for the cleanest edges.