Rich caramel (or chocolate-caramel) coats toasted pecans to create irresistible bite-sized treats. They’re easy to make, perfect for gifting, and totally addictive.
🧺 Ingredients
Classic Pecan Clusters
3 cups pecan halves (toasted)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
½ cup heavy cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
Optional Chocolate Version
1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil or shortening (for smooth melting)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the Pecans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Spread pecans on a baking sheet
Toast 8–10 minutes until fragrant
Set aside
2️⃣ Make the Caramel
In a heavy saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, butter, and salt
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly
Bring to a gentle boil
Continue cooking 5–7 minutes, until thickened and glossy
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
3️⃣ Add Pecans
Fold toasted pecans into the caramel
Stir until fully coated
4️⃣ Form the Clusters
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet
Let cool completely until set
🍫 Chocolate-Dipped New Orleans Style (Optional but Amazing)
Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil
Drizzle over cooled clusters or
Dip the bottom of each cluster in chocolate
Let set at room temperature or chill briefly
🌶️ Southern Flavor Twists (Optional)
Bourbon Pecan Clusters: add 1–2 tsp bourbon to caramel
Praline-Style: add a pinch of baking soda at the end for lighter texture
Spiced Version: add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne (very Louisiana!)
👩🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Clusters
Stir constantly to avoid grainy caramel
Toasting pecans is non-negotiable—it boosts flavor
Use parchment, not wax paper
Work quickly once pecans are added—the caramel sets fast
🎁 Storage & Gifting
Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks
Separate layers with parchment
Perfect for holidays, hostess gifts, or party favors
🧡 Why These Are a New Orleans Favorite
✔ Inspired by classic Southern pralines
✔ Deep caramel flavor
✔ Crunchy, buttery pecans
✔ Easy candy-shop elegance at home
🌟 Final Thoughts
New Orleans Pecan Clusters are pure Southern comfort—simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Whether you keep them classic or add chocolate or bourbon, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.