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Chocolate Caramel Pecan Clusters Recipe

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4.4 from 9 reviews

Delight in these decadent Chocolate Billionaires, a rich and crunchy treat combining gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and crispy Rice Krispies, all enveloped in a smooth milk chocolate coating. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a luxurious homemade candy.

Ingredients

Caramel Mixture

  • 1 package (14 ounces) caramels
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 11/2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 cup Rice Krispies

Chocolate Coating

  • 3 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 11/2 teaspoons shortening

Instructions

  1. Prepare your pans: Line two baking sheets with waxed paper and lightly grease them to prevent the candies from sticking as they cool and harden. Set them aside.
  2. Melt the caramel: In a large, heavy saucepan over low heat, combine the caramels and water. Stir continuously until the caramel melts completely and becomes smooth, which can take a few minutes. Once melted, mix in the chopped pecans and Rice Krispies thoroughly so everything is evenly coated.
  3. Form the candy clusters: Use a teaspoon or a small cookie dough scoop to drop spoonfuls of the caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart. Place the trays in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to firm up the clusters.
  4. Dip in chocolate: While the clusters chill, melt the milk chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Once the clusters are firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, coating all sides. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated clusters back onto the waxed paper.
  5. Set and store: Refrigerate the chocolates until the chocolate coating is fully set, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. After setting, transfer the candies to an airtight container for storage to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Using a small cookie dough scoop helps portion the caramel mixture evenly and creates uniform-sized clusters.
  • Ensure the caramel is fully melted before mixing in the pecans and Rice Krispies for the best texture.
  • You can substitute pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds based on preference.
  • Store the finished candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.