Caramel Pecan Chocolate Treats

Name: Caramel Pecan Chocolate Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 1 cup pecan halves; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup caramel candies; 1 tablespoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making these Caramel Pecan Chocolate Treats whenever I need a quick yet indulgent dessert. The sweet and salty combination of caramel and pecans enveloped in rich chocolate creates a heavenly bite that I can't resist. Every time I prepare these treats, I delight in how easy they are to assemble, making them perfect for both special occasions and casual gatherings. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe once they get a taste of this irresistible chocolatey goodness.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:10:28.621Z

When I first created these Caramel Pecan Chocolate Treats, I wanted to experiment with a delightful balance of flavors. I found that toasting the pecans not only enhances their nutty aroma but also adds a beautiful crunch, making every bite more satisfying. This meticulous attention to detail is what elevates this treat from a simple dessert to something truly special.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to ensure that the chocolate coating is tempered well. This not only ensures a glossy finish but also gives the treats a satisfying snap when you bite into them. It’s these little moments that remind me of why I love baking and sharing sweet creations with others.

Why You'll Love These Treats
Decadent layers of caramel and chocolate provide an explosion of flavor.
The crunch of toasted pecans adds the perfect texture to each bite.
Quick to prepare, pop them in your mouth and enjoy guilt-free indulgence!

Key Techniques for Perfect Treats

Mastering the toasting of pecans is crucial for enhancing their flavor in these treats. I recommend keeping a close watch during the toasting process, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. When done right, toasted pecans should be fragrant and slightly darker in color, lending a rich, nutty taste to the overall dish.

When melting the caramel, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid scorching. Stir continuously to ensure even melting; if you find it thick and hard to work with, you can add a splash of heavy cream to achieve a smoother consistency that coats the pecans evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

For those aiming for a healthier version, you can swap out the chocolate chips for dark chocolate, which offers a richer flavor and a slightly healthier profile due to lower sugar content. Additionally, consider using unsweetened baking chocolate if you're looking to control the sweetness overall while balancing it with the caramel’s natural sugars.

If pecans aren't your favorite, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or even almonds. Both options provide a different texture and flavor, but keep in mind that walnuts have a slightly more bitter taste, which can complement the sweet caramel beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Treats

1 cup pecan halves
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup caramel candies
1 tablespoon sea salt

These simple ingredients come together to create a rich treat that’s perfect for sharing!

Instructions

Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Melt the Caramel

In a small saucepan, melt the caramel candies over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Prepare the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval until fully melted and smooth.

Assemble the Treats

In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted pecans and melted caramel until the nuts are well coated. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture onto parchment paper and allow to set for 10 minutes.

Coat with Chocolate

Dip each caramel-coated pecan treat into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully covered. Place them back on the parchment paper and sprinkle with sea salt before the chocolate hardens.

Let the treats cool completely before transferring them to a serving platter.

Pro Tips

To make these treats even more indulgent, try using dark chocolate for a richer flavor experience. Ensure the chocolate is tempered properly for a beautiful finish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Caramel Pecan Chocolate Treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. I recommend keeping them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week. If you want to prep them even earlier, consider individually wrapping each treat in wax paper to maintain their freshness and avoid sticking together.

If you're planning to serve these treats at a gathering, you can also freeze them! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them initially, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. They can store well in the freezer for a month—simply take them out a few hours before serving to allow them to thaw.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

These treats pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate, which enhances the chocolatey flavor while balancing the sweetness. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with seasonal fruits like apple slices or strawberries to contrast the richness with their natural tartness.

For an added layer of flavor, try drizzling your treats with a homemade chocolate ganache or caramel sauce just before serving. This not only elevates their appearance but also introduces a new texture and flavor dynamic that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or even peanuts based on your preference.

→ How should I store the chocolate treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them 2-3 days in advance. Just store them properly as mentioned above.

→ What can I use as a topping instead of sea salt?

If you're looking for alternatives, try using crushed pretzels or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a different flavor profile.