Indulge in the ultimate sweet and salty treat with these buttery caramel-coated pecans sprinkled with sea salt. The rich caramel coating brings out the natural nuttiness of the pecans, while a touch of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a topping for desserts, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these pecans are irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balances sweet, salty, and nutty flavors.
• Simple to make with just a handful of ingredients.
• A versatile treat—great for snacking, gifting, or adding to baked goods.
• Stores well for a make-ahead option.
• Naturally gluten-free and full of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pecan halves
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
2. Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves and begins to bubble. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Coat the pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the toasted pecans to the caramel. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated.
5. Spread and sprinkle: Spread the caramel-coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. While still warm, sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
6. Cool and set: Allow the pecans to cool completely at room temperature. Once the caramel has hardened, break apart any clusters if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 2 cups of pecans (4–6 servings)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Caramel Pecans: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the caramel for extra flavor.
• Nut Mix: Swap out some of the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the pecans for an added layer of indulgence.
• Maple Twist: Replace some or all of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the caramel-coated pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
• Reheating: These pecans are best enjoyed at room temperature. If they clump together, gently break them apart before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the amount of added sea salt to avoid an overly salty flavor.

2. How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Stir constantly while cooking the caramel and keep the heat at medium. Remove from heat as soon as it thickens.

3. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, but dark brown sugar will provide a deeper, richer flavor.

4. Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Grainy caramel can result from undissolved sugar. Ensure the sugar fully dissolves before adding the cream.

5. Can I use other nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with walnuts, almonds, cashews, or a mix of your favorites.

6. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan version.

7. How do I keep the caramel coating evenly distributed?

Work quickly to toss the pecans in the caramel while it’s still warm, as it hardens as it cools.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger saucepan to accommodate the caramel.

9. Why is my caramel too runny?

The caramel may need more time to cook and thicken. Let it bubble for a few extra minutes while stirring.

10. Can I freeze caramel-coated pecans?

Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These buttery caramel-coated pecans sprinkled with sea salt are a decadent treat that’s incredibly simple to make. With their sweet, nutty, and slightly salty flavor, they’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a crunchy topping to desserts. Make a batch for your next gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth—you won’t be disappointed!

Buttery Caramel-Coated Pecans Sprinkled with Sea Salt

Buttery caramel-coated pecans sprinkled with sea salt are a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and salty flavors. With their rich caramel coating and satisfying crunch, these pecans make an addictive snack, a delightful topping for desserts, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. This easy recipe is perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving a sweet-and-salty treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet caramel with a touch of sea salt for a perfect flavor balance.
• Easy and quick to make in under 30 minutes.
• Great for gifting, snacking, or adding to baked goods.
• Naturally gluten-free and simple to customize.
• A crowd-pleaser at parties or as an everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pecan halves
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set it aside.
2. Toast the pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast them for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until dissolved and bubbling. Gradually add the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Coat the pecans: Remove the caramel from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract. Add the toasted pecans to the saucepan and toss until evenly coated.
5. Spread and sprinkle: Spread the caramel-coated pecans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Immediately sprinkle sea salt over the warm pecans.
6. Cool and set: Let the pecans cool completely at room temperature. Once the caramel has hardened, break apart any clusters and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 2 cups (4–6 servings)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Nut Mix: Swap out some pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a variety of flavors and textures.
• Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the caramel for a warm or spicy twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the pecans are cool, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over them for an extra indulgent treat.
• Maple-Caramel Pecans: Replace part of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the caramel-coated pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Refrigerate for longer freshness, up to 3 weeks.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pecans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: These pecans don’t need reheating. If they clump together, gently break them apart before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-roasted pecans for this recipe?

Yes, but skip the toasting step to avoid over-roasting them.

2. Why is my caramel too runny?

Your caramel may need more time to simmer and thicken. Cook it for an additional 1–2 minutes until it reaches the right consistency.

3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added sea salt to prevent the pecans from becoming overly salty.

4. How do I keep the pecans from sticking together?

Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet and separate any clusters while the caramel is still warm.

5. Can I make these pecans without cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream, but the caramel may be slightly less rich.

6. Are these pecans suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in decorative jars or gift bags for a thoughtful homemade present.

7. Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes, this recipe works well with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts.

8. Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Grainy caramel can happen if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved. Stir constantly while cooking to avoid this.

9. How can I make this vegan?

Replace the butter with plant-based butter and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.

10. What’s the best way to serve these pecans?

They’re perfect as a snack, salad topper, dessert garnish, or even crushed and sprinkled over ice cream.

Conclusion

These buttery caramel-coated pecans sprinkled with sea salt are an indulgent treat you’ll want to make again and again. Their balance of sweet and salty flavors, combined with their crunch, makes them versatile enough for snacking, gifting, or enhancing your favorite desserts. With just a few simple steps, you can create this irresistible treat that’s sure to impress. Give them a try and enjoy every bite!