Caramel Cream Cheese Bonbons
Creamy caramel and pecan-filled confections coated in chocolate make these bonbons perfect for special occasions or sweet gifting, offering rich flavors and delightful textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine caramels and evaporated milk in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave until the caramels are melted, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 1 cup powdered sugar, margarine, and chopped pecans. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, stir in softened cream cheese.
- Gradually add 1 pound or more powdered sugar until the mixture can be shaped into balls after chilling.
- Chill the mixture for 2 hours.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on wax paper.
- Freeze the balls for 30 minutes until firm.
- Melt almond bark or chocolate and quickly dip the bonbons using toothpicks.
- Place the dipped bonbons back on wax paper and let the coating harden.
- Store the finished bonbons in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of margarine. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. To save time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels. If you want a less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar gradually until you find the balance you like. Remember to stir the mixture well after each addition of powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Caramel Cream Cheese Bonbons as a delightful dessert after dinner or during special occasions. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. You can also serve them alongside other sweets like Pineapple Chiffon Pie or Gertrude'S Gingerbread for a diverse dessert table. For a fun twist, try drizzling them with caramel sauce before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the finished bonbons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To enjoy them later, simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid reheating as it may alter their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Cream Cheese Bonbons contains roughly 536 calories, with 2g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 13g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cream cheese spread instead of softened cream cheese?
Using cream cheese spread can change the consistency of your bonbons, making them softer and potentially harder to shape. It's best to stick with softened cream cheese for optimal texture and flavor. If you're in a pinch, try chilling the spread first to help firm it up before mixing.
How can I make these bonbons more festive for a holiday party?
To make your bonbons more festive, consider rolling them in crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or colored sugar before the chocolate coating sets. You could also use white chocolate or colored candy melts to dip them, adding a pop of color. Packaging them in decorative boxes can also make them a perfect gift or party favor.
What can I do if my mixture is too sticky to roll into balls?
If your mixture turns out too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to firm it up. You can also dust your hands with powdered sugar while rolling to prevent sticking. If it’s still too difficult, adding a little more powdered sugar can help achieve a more manageable consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).