Caramel Pecan Clusters are the ultimate indulgence when you want something gooey, nutty, and delightfully sweet in every bite. These little treats combine buttery caramel and crunchy pecans with a hint of vanilla and sea salt all wrapped up in an easy to make, no bake dessert.
Hi, I’m Jack recipe developer, food enthusiast, and the heart behind Cooks Foody. I love bringing nostalgic recipes to life with simple steps and satisfying results. This caramel pecan cluster recipe was born out of my craving for a quick, luxurious treat that feels homemade and festive without hours in the kitchen.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make these in just a few steps, get pro tips for customizing flavors, and explore clever storage hacks to keep them fresh.
Why This Caramel Pecan Clusters Recipe Works
- Uses simple ingredients: Just 6 pantry staples needed
- Fast prep: Ready in under 20 minutes
- Holiday or everyday worthy: Makes a beautiful gift or after-dinner treat
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Caramel Pecan Clusters
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
- Pecan halves: Use fresh, toasted pecans for richer flavor
- Caramel candies: Soft caramels melt smoothly
- Butter & cream: Add creaminess and help bind
Buying Tips
- Look for unsalted butter and heavy cream without additives
- Choose pecans that are golden not dark or oily
Substitutions
- Swap walnuts or cashews for pecans
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for dairy free clusters
Ingredients & Prep for Caramel Pecan Clusters
Essential Prep Steps
- Toast pecans lightly for extra depth
- Unwrap soft caramel candies before melting
Pantry Staples
- Caramel candies (11 oz)
- Sea salt
- Vanilla extract
- Butter (unsalted)
- Heavy cream
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Caramel Pecan Clusters
Pre-Cooking Prep for Caramel Pecan Clusters
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Lightly toast pecans in a skillet over low heat (optional but recommended)
Cooking Method for Caramel Pecan Clusters
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1 tbsp butter
- Add caramel candies and 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth (about 5–7 minutes)
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1 tsp sea salt
Doneness Check for Caramel Pecan Clusters
- Caramel should be thick but spoonable
- Mixture should coat the pecans without running off
Resting for Caramel Pecan Clusters
- Spoon clusters onto parchment and let cool at room temp for 30 minutes
Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Pecan Clusters
Avoiding Tough or Sticky Clusters
- Don’t overheat the caramel keep it on low
- Stir constantly to avoid scorching
Tool Recommendations
- Use a silicone spatula to stir
- Try a cookie scoop for uniform clusters
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container for 5 days
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze with parchment between layers for 2 months
Flavor Variations for Caramel Pecan Clusters
| Twist | Add-Ins/Changes |
|---|---|
| Spicy | Sprinkle with chili flakes |
| Nut-Free | Use sunflower seeds |
| Chocolatey | Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top |
| Festive | Add crushed peppermint or cranberries |
Serving Suggestions for Caramel Pecan Clusters
- Great on dessert platters
- Perfect with hot cocoa or a chai latte
- Add to holiday cookie tins
FAQs about Caramel Pecan Clusters
Can I use frozen pecans?
Yes just thaw and toast them lightly before using.
Why is my caramel hardening too fast?
You may have overheated it. Keep it on low and stir constantly.
Is this recipe safe for kids?
Yes! Just make sure the caramel has cooled before handling.
Conclusion
Ready to make your kitchen smell like a candy shop? Try these easy Caramel Pecan Clusters tonight!
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Caramel Pecan Clusters 5 Min Rich & Easy Delight
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re looking for an irresistible sweet treat that’s easy to make and impossible to stop eating, Caramel Pecan Clusters are your answer. This quick dessert recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort perfect for parties, gifting, or late-night snacking. Rich caramel wraps around crunchy toasted pecans for a chewy, buttery bite that tastes like it came from a candy shop. Whether you’re hunting for easy snack ideas, make-ahead dessert recipes, or holiday candy inspiration, this one’s a keeper. Great for dessert trays, quick holiday sweets, or anytime you need that salty-sweet fix.
Ingredients
2 cups pecan halves
11 ounces soft caramel candies
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 7–8 minutes. Let them cool completely.
2. In a saucepan, combine unwrapped caramel candies, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over low to medium, stirring constantly until smooth and melted.
3. Stir in vanilla extract once the caramel is fully melted and glossy.
4. Remove from heat and gently fold in the toasted pecans until fully coated.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small clusters onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or press a pecan on top for decoration.
7. Let clusters cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes or until completely set.
Notes
Be sure to toast the pecans it adds depth and better crunch.
Store clusters between parchment layers to avoid sticking.
Work quickly once the caramel is ready it sets fast!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Stove-Top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: caramel pecan clusters, quick dessert, candy recipe, holiday sweets, easy snacks