Pecan Caramel Candies

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich, buttery caramel and crunchy pecans with these Pecan Caramel Candies. Perfect for a homemade gift or a sweet treat for yourself, these candies are surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The soft caramel pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both sweet and nutty. Whether you’re a caramel lover or simply looking for a delicious confection to impress your friends and family, these Pecan Caramel Candies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sea salt flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the butter is melted and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Cook the Caramel: Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), also known as the soft-ball stage. This process should take about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the caramel, as it can burn quickly.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the Candies: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a few pecan halves in clusters on the sheet, leaving space between each cluster. Carefully spoon a small amount of caramel over each pecan cluster, making sure to coat the pecans but not to spread too thin.
6. Cool and Set: Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature until they are firm to the touch. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes on top of each candy for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Store and Enjoy: Once cooled, transfer the candies to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy your homemade Pecan Caramel Candies as a delicious snack or dessert!