Heavenly Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters Recipe for Sweet Fans

Chocolate lovers adore these sea salted praline pecan clusters that blend sweet and salty perfection.

The rich, decadent treat melts effortlessly on your tongue with a delightful crunch.

Caramelized pecans provide a nutty base that elevates every single bite.

Brown sugar and butter create a luscious coating that hugs each pecan with golden warmth.

These clusters emerge as an irresistible confection that balances complex flavors seamlessly.

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a sophisticated edge to this classic Southern-inspired dessert.

You won’t be able to resist these addictive, small-batch clusters that promise pure indulgence in every single bite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 211 kcal

Servings: 24

Praline Cluster Ingredient Rundown

• Pecans: Provide crunchy foundation, choose fresh, plump halves with golden-brown color and rich nutty aroma, toast to enhance deep flavor complexity.

• Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture, select high-quality unsalted butter for consistent melting.
• Brown Sugar: Creates deep caramel sweetness, opt for dark variety for intense molasses undertones.
• Heavy Cream: Ensures silky caramel consistency, select full-fat version for luxurious mouthfeel.
• Corn Syrup: Prevents sugar crystallization, provides glossy finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor depth, use pure extract for authentic taste.
• Sea Salt: Balances sweetness, provides unexpected flavor contrast, select flaky variety for delicate crunch.

• Chocolate Chips: Creates decadent finish, choose high-quality dark or milk chocolate for rich indulgence.
• Extra Sea Salt: Adds final flavor punctuation, sprinkle sparingly for sophisticated touch.

Tools for Crafting Sweet and Salty Bites

• Baking sheet: Flat metal pan for toasting pecans and laying out clusters.
• Saucepan: Medium-sized pot for cooking praline caramel mixture.
• Candy thermometer: Essential for accurately measuring caramel temperature.
• Parchment paper/silicone mat: Prevents clusters from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Used for melting chocolate (if coating).
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring caramel and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements for ingredients.

Mix Pecans With Caramel and Sea Salt

• Roast Nutty Goodness

Spread golden pecan halves on a baking sheet and slide them into a 350F oven. Let them dance and toast for 7-10 minutes until their rich aroma fills your kitchen. Set aside to cool naturally.

• Craft Caramel

In a saucepan, gently melt butter and swirl in brown sugar, cream, and corn syrup. Stir this sweet mixture constantly, watching it transform until it reaches a perfect golden temperature. Pull from heat and infuse with vanilla and a whisper of sea salt.

• Create Delectable Clusters

Cover a baking sheet with parchment. Arrange little pecan families in small cozy groups. Lovingly drench each cluster with warm praline caramel, ensuring every nut gets a luxurious coating.

• Optional Chocolate Enhancement

Melt chocolate until silky smooth. Drizzle or dunk clusters for an extra layer of decadence.

• Final Flavor Flourish

While clusters are still warm, sprinkle a delicate pinch of sea salt across the top, adding a stunning flavor contrast.

• Chill and Enjoy

Allow clusters to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container and savor within a week for maximum deliciousness.

Tips to Avoid Grainy Texture in the Candy

• Toasting transforms ordinary pecans into flavor powerhouses, bringing out their rich, nutty essence.
• These clusters can be prepared days in advance, making them perfect for holiday gifts or last-minute dessert emergencies.
• Swap out dairy ingredients for vegan alternatives like coconut cream and plant-based butter to create delicious allergy-friendly treats.
• Experiment with different nuts like almonds or cashews, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon or espresso powder for unexpected taste twists.
• Try different chocolate varieties – dark, milk, or white chocolate can completely change the cluster's personality and appeal to different palates.

Serve in Paper Cups or Trays

• Gourmet Gift Packaging: Wrap clusters in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine, perfect for holiday gifting or personal treat packages.
• Sweet Dessert Companion: Pair with vanilla ice cream, drizzle melted caramel on top, and sprinkle extra toasted pecans for a decadent sundae experience.
• Charcuterie Board Star: Arrange clusters alongside soft cheeses like brie, fresh fruits, and dark chocolate pieces for an elegant appetizer presentation.
• Coffee Lover's Delight: Serve alongside espresso or cappuccino as a sophisticated after-dinner treat that complements rich coffee flavors perfectly.

Store in a Cool Place for Crisp Bites

• Spread clusters on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to speed up hardening process, ensuring perfect texture and quick serving.
• Separate clusters with wax paper or parchment sheets inside an airtight container to prevent sticking and maintain individual cluster integrity during storage.
• Keep clusters in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Refrigeration extends shelf life and maintains crisp caramel consistency up to 10 days.
• Wrap individual clusters in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen clusters stay delicious for 4-6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying for best taste and texture.

FAQs

• Why toast the pecans first?

Toasting brings out the pecans’ natural oils and deepens their nutty flavor, creating a more complex and rich taste profile for the clusters.

• How do I know when the praline caramel is ready?

Use a candy thermometer to check for 240F (soft-ball stage). If you don’t have one, look for a thick, golden syrup that falls slowly from a spoon and forms a soft ball when dropped in cold water.

• Can I make these clusters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to a week in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain their crisp texture and delicious flavor.

• What type of chocolate works best for coating?

Dark, milk, or semi-sweet chocolate chips all work well. Choose your favorite or mix them for a more complex chocolate flavor in the clusters.

Indulgent Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 25 1x

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Description

Delightful Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters showcase sweet Southern charm with caramelized pecans and delicate sea salt. Crisp candied nuts offer rich flavor and elegant texture that will satisfy chocolate and confection enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups (200 g / 7.05 oz) pecan halves, toasted
• 1 cup (200 g / 7.05 oz) brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup (115 g / 4 oz) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (60 ml / 2 fl oz) light corn syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 cup (180 g / 6.35 oz) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (optional, for coating)

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Instructions

1. Toasting Pecans: Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated 350F (175C) oven for 7-10 minutes until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool completely.
2. Crafting Praline Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup. Heat over moderate flame, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 240F (115C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and sea salt until smooth and glossy.
3. Cluster Assembly: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange 4-5 toasted pecans in small clusters. Carefully drizzle warm praline caramel over each cluster, ensuring thorough and even coverage of the nuts.
4. Chocolate Enhancement: Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring at short intervals until completely smooth. Embellish clusters by either drizzling chocolate across the surface or dipping cluster bottoms into the melted chocolate.
5. Finishing Touch: While caramel and chocolate remain slightly fluid, sprinkle a delicate pinch of sea salt over each cluster to elevate the flavor profile. Allow clusters to set at room temperature or expedite cooling in the refrigerator. Transfer to an airtight container, where they will maintain their crisp texture for up to one week.

Notes

• Toast Pecans Carefully: Spread pecans evenly on a baking sheet and watch closely to prevent burning, as their natural oils can quickly turn from golden to bitter.
• Monitor Caramel Temperature: Use a reliable candy thermometer to hit the precise 240F sweet spot, which ensures the perfect glossy texture without crystallizing or burning.
• Control Chocolate Melting: Microwave chocolate in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent scorching and achieve a smooth, glossy finish for coating.
• Optimize Salt Finishing: Sprinkle sea salt while caramel or chocolate is still warm to help salt adhere and create a balanced sweet-savory flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 25
• Calories: 196
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 38 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 18 mg