These Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters are the perfect blend of buttery caramel sweetness and roasted nutty crunch. Each cluster is finished with a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a balanced, gourmet holiday treat. They come together quickly, make beautiful gifts, and taste like something straight from a specialty candy shop!
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set your toasted pecans within reach once the praline mixture is ready, you’ll need to work quickly. - Make the praline mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir gently until everything melts together and the sugars dissolve. - Boil
Bring the mixture to a steady boil. Continue cooking until it reaches 235–240°F (soft-ball stage), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Finish the praline
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla and salt. Add the toasted pecans and mix quickly to coat. The mixture will thicken as it cools. - Form clusters
Working swiftly, spoon small mounds of the pecan praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each cluster with a pinch of flaky sea salt. - Set
Allow clusters to cool at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or until firm and set.
Variation
- Cinnamon Sugar Twist – Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the praline mixture for a warm holiday spice note that complements the caramelized sugars beautifully.
- Maple Praline Clusters – Swap 1 teaspoon of vanilla for 1/2 teaspoon maple extract to give the clusters a deeper, richer fall-inspired flavor.
- Chocolate-Dipped Style – Once cooled, dip half of each cluster in melted dark chocolate for an elegant glossy finish and an added layer of indulgence.
Cooking Notes
- Toasting the pecans intensifies their flavor and helps them stay crisp within the praline coating.
- Work quickly when forming clusters the praline mixture begins to firm up fast as it cools.
- Use a candy thermometer for best results; praline texture depends heavily on hitting the right temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Gift Bags – Wrap clusters in festive cellophane bags or tins for beautiful homemade gifts that look as luxurious as they taste.
- Christmas Dessert Board – Add them to a platter with truffles, brittle, and chocolate bark for a stunning holiday spread.
- Coffee or Cocoa Treat – Their buttery sweetness pairs perfectly with a warm drink, making them ideal for cozy evenings.
Tips
- Use fresh pecans – Fresh nuts make all the difference in praline candy; old nuts can taste bitter or stale.
- Don’t skip the flaky sea salt – It enhances the sweetness and adds a beautiful, gourmet finishing touch.
- Store properly – Keep clusters in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture and prevent the caramel from becoming sticky.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Cluster)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 1 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans?
Yes! Pecans are classic, but any sturdy nut works well in this recipe. - Do I have to use a candy thermometer?
It helps ensure perfect praline texture but watching for “soft-ball stage” can also work. - How long do these clusters last?
Stored airtight, they keep well for up to 2 weeks. - Can I freeze praline pecan clusters?
They can be frozen, but may lose crispness room temperature storage is best.
Conclusion
These Sea Salted Praline Pecan Clusters deliver irresistible caramel richness, nutty crunch, and a sprinkle of sea salt magic in every bite. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at holiday gatherings, or enjoying them with a cozy drink at home, they bring festive warmth and homemade charm to any moment.
