Chocolate Covered Pecan Caramels
Chocolate Covered Pecan Caramels are rich, chewy treats blending buttery caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth milk chocolate. Perfect for gifting or satisfying sweet cravings, they offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to chocolate lovers and those who enjoy homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a heavy saucepan.
- Add brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and light corn syrup, then blend well.
- Cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 248°F (firm ball stage) on a candy thermometer, while stirring with a wooden spoon.
- Remove from heat.
- Add chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
- Stir and pour into a buttered foil-lined 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Let stand until firm.
- Lift the foil from the pan and cut into 3/4-inch squares with a buttered knife.
- In a double boiler, melt milk chocolate chips and paraffin over boiling water.
- Dip each caramel square into the chocolate mixture and place on waxed paper.
- Let stand until cool, then wrap in plastic wrap.
- Store in refrigerator or freezer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. Be sure to stir constantly while cooking to avoid burning the caramel. Using a candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the perfect firm ball stage. If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate-covered pecan caramels are delightful on their own but also make a great addition to dessert platters. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They also serve as a fantastic gift during the holidays. Consider serving them alongside other sweet treats like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-covered pecan caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Covered Pecan Caramels contains roughly 1551 calories, with 10g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these caramels without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for precise results, you can perform a cold water test instead. Drop a small amount of the caramel mixture into cold water; if it forms a firm ball, it's ready. However, using a thermometer will yield more consistent results.
What if my caramels are too soft?
If your caramels are too soft, they may not have reached the firm ball stage. You can try reheating the mixture gently while stirring until it reaches the correct temperature. Alternatively, you can store them in the refrigerator to firm them up before cutting and dipping in chocolate.
Can I use different nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the caramel and provide that satisfying crunch.
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).