Tis the Season for Sweetness: Holiday Caramel Pecan Clusters
If Santa had a secret stash, we’re pretty sure these Holiday Caramel Pecan Clusters would be in it—right next to the milk and cookies he pretends not to eat all at once. These little bites of joy are loaded with buttery caramel, crunchy pecans, and a rich blanket of chocolate that’ll make even the Grinch crack a smile. Add a sprinkle of festive cheer (literally—holiday sprinkles!) and you’ve got the most jolly candy on the dessert table. They’re easy enough to whip up between wrapping presents and untangling lights for the fifth time. So grab your apron, crank up the carols, and let’s make some Christmas magic—one gooey, chocolatey cluster at a time!
Why you should make these amazing treats:
- Festive & Fun: The colorful holiday sprinkles make these clusters instantly cheerful and perfect for any Christmas party or cookie exchange.
- Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or baking skills required—just melt, mix, and drizzle your way to dessert perfection.
- Irresistibly Delicious: The combo of creamy caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate is basically Christmas in a bite.
- Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them up in a cute tin or cellophane bag, and you’ve got a homemade gift everyone will actually want.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding elves, coworkers, or family, these treats disappear faster than you can say “ho ho ho!”
These Holiday Caramel Pecan Clusters are perfect for:
- Christmas parties – The ultimate sweet treat to share while rocking your favorite ugly sweater.
- Holiday cookie exchanges – A fun twist on the usual cookies that’ll make you the star of the swap.
- Family gatherings – Perfect for snacking between gift unwrapping and storytelling by the tree.
- Office celebrations – A guaranteed hit at the break room dessert table (bonus points if you bring extra!).
- Winter movie nights – Pair with hot cocoa and a cozy blanket for the ultimate festive indulgence.
- New Year’s Eve parties – Sweet, sparkly, and bite-sized—ideal for ringing in the new year.
- Homemade gift baskets – Add a personal, delicious touch to your holiday presents.
- Bake sales or fundraisers – Eye-catching, easy to package, and sure to sell out fast!
Holiday Chocolate Caramel Pecan Clusters
Servings: 18
Prep time: 15 minutes / Cook Time: 2 minutes
Down time: 1 hour
Storage: airtight container
Ingredients
- 10 oz chocolate melting wafers
- ⅔ cup pecan halves
- ½ cup dulce de leche caramel
- 1 tbsp holiday sprinkles
Directions
Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second intervals, stirring between each heating session, until fully melted.
Add small circles of chocolate to a parchment lined baking sheet.
Arrange 2-3 pecan halves on top of the chocolate circle.
Heat the dulce de leche for 30 seconds to just make it a little softer. Drop a very small spoonful of dulce de leche on top of the pecans.
Cover with more chocolate. Add sprinkles.
Allow candy to set at room temperature for about an hour, or chill if you want it done sooner.
FAQ
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store bought?
You sure can! Feel free to use your favorite homemade caramel recipe.
How should I store the clusters?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge if your kitchen runs warm. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before serving so the caramel softens up again.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These treats are perfect for prepping a few days in advance—just store them properly and they’ll taste freshly made when you need them.
What kind of chocolate works best?
You can use milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate depending on your sweet tooth level. For a festive touch, drizzle a mix of white and dark chocolate before adding those cheerful holiday sprinkles!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Holiday Caramel Pecan Clusters
- Toast your pecans before using them—just a few minutes in the oven brings out their rich, nutty flavor.
- Keep an eye on your caramel! Stir constantly and don’t walk away—it can go from golden to burnt faster than Santa up a chimney.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep the clusters from sticking.
- Work quickly once the caramel is ready so it doesn’t harden before you scoop it onto the pecans.
- Get creative with toppings! Try crushed candy canes, sea salt, or gold sprinkles for an extra festive flair.
Now that your kitchen smells like a candy shop at the North Pole, it’s time to grab one (or three) of these Holiday Caramel Pecan Clusters and taste the magic you just made! They’re the perfect mix of cozy, crunchy, and chocolatey—basically everything the holidays should be. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing them, or secretly hiding them from your family, these little treats are guaranteed to spread cheer. So pour yourself some cocoa, turn on those twinkly lights, and enjoy every sweet, sparkly bite of the season!
