Description
These New Orleans Pecan Clusters are a sweet, crunchy treat featuring toasted pecan halves coated in a rich, caramel-like sugar mixture. Perfect as a snack or a gift, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of pecans with a buttery, creamy candy coating made with brown and granulated sugars, butter, and heavy cream, finished with vanilla extract for extra depth.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 5-7 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. This step enhances the nutty flavor.
- Chop Pecans (Optional): Once toasted and cooled slightly, you can chop the pecans if you prefer smaller clusters, though this is optional and purely based on your texture preference.
- Combine Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and salt. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are mixed before heating.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 235°F (113°C), known as the “soft ball” stage, which ensures the right consistency for the candy coating.
- Add Vanilla and Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and then fold in the toasted pecans until they are completely coated with the sugar mixture.
- Form Clusters and Cool: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the pecan-sugar mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them cool completely at room temperature until they harden and set into clusters.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately measure the temperature for perfect results.
- Ensure that you stir constantly while cooking the sugar mixture to prevent burning.
- These pecan clusters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For a variation, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a spicy twist.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, finely chop the pecans before mixing.
