Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters

Introduction: If you’re a fan of the perfect balance between sweet and salty, then Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters are the treat for you! These delectable morsels combine the richness of praline caramel with the crunch of roasted pecans and a sprinkle of sea salt for a truly irresistible flavor. Whether you’re preparing a homemade gift, a special dessert for your holiday table, or simply a treat for yourself, these clusters are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pecan halves
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• Pinch of baking soda

Instructions:

1. Toast the Pecans: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Praline Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and take on a rich caramel color.
3. Add Vanilla and Baking Soda: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of baking soda. The baking soda will cause the mixture to bubble, which helps make the praline mixture extra smooth.
4. Combine with Pecans: Add the toasted pecans to the caramel sauce and stir until the nuts are fully coated with the praline mixture.
5. Form Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the praline pecan mixture onto the prepared sheet. Space them out so they don’t touch. The clusters will set as they cool.
6. Add Sea Salt: While the praline pecan clusters are still warm, sprinkle them lightly with sea salt. The salt enhances the sweet caramel flavor and gives each bite a savory contrast.
7. Let Cool: Allow the clusters to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, the praline mixture will harden, giving the clusters their signature crunchy texture.

Tips for the Best Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters:

• For an extra burst of flavor, toast the pecans with a little bit of butter before adding them to the caramel.
• Make sure to watch the caramel closely while it’s simmering to avoid burning. Stir constantly to achieve the perfect smooth texture.
• Use flaky sea salt for a more delicate, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Serving Suggestions: These Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters are perfect for:

• Gifting during the holidays in decorative tins or jars.
• Adding to a dessert platter at your next gathering.
• Enjoying as an indulgent snack or pairing with your favorite coffee or hot chocolate.

Storage: Store these praline pecan clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, though they may lose a little of their crunch.

Conclusion: Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters are the perfect treat to satisfy any craving for something sweet and salty. With their rich caramel coating, crunchy pecans, and a hint of sea salt, these clusters are a snack you won’t be able to stop eating. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they’re a delightful addition to any occasion. Try making these today and enjoy the ultimate sweet-salty snack!

Serving Tips for Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters:

1. Gift-Worthy Packaging: These praline pecan clusters make for a great gift. Place them in decorative jars, boxes, or tins for a homemade treat that’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. Add a ribbon or personalized label for an extra touch of charm.
2. Dessert Platter Addition: Include these clusters on a dessert platter alongside other sweet treats like chocolate truffles, caramel candies, or cookies. Their sweet and salty flavor makes them an excellent contrast to other desserts.
3. Pairing with Drinks: Pair the clusters with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The rich praline flavor complements the warmth of these drinks, enhancing the overall experience.
4. Snack for Entertaining: These clusters are a great snack for parties or gatherings. Place them in small bowls around the room to offer guests a delightful bite-sized treat that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
5. Serve with Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, top a bowl of vanilla ice cream with chopped Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters. The contrast of the cold, creamy ice cream and the crunchy, sweet clusters makes for a mouthwatering combination.

Storage Tips for Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters:

1. Room Temperature Storage: Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This ensures they stay fresh and crunchy. Keep the container in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.
2. Refrigeration: If you want to store them for a longer period, you can refrigerate the clusters for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting the texture.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters. Place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag, and store for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
4. Avoid Sticking Together: If you want to prevent the clusters from sticking together during storage, layer parchment paper between each cluster in the container. This will keep them separate and easy to grab.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters for days (or even weeks) after making them!

1. Can I use other nuts besides pecans for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the type of nut you use.
2. How can I make the praline caramel smoother? If your caramel feels grainy or separates, try adding a little more cream (1 tablespoon at a time) while stirring. Ensure that the caramel mixture is well combined and free of any crystallized sugar. Stir constantly and cook at medium heat to avoid burning.
3. Can I make these clusters ahead of time for a party or holiday gift? Absolutely! These clusters can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative jars or gift boxes.
4. How do I prevent the clusters from sticking together during storage? To keep the clusters from sticking, layer them with parchment paper in between each one when storing them in an airtight container. This will ensure they stay separate and easy to grab.

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