- Granulated Sugar: Perfect for creating the rich, sweet caramel flavor.
- Light Corn Syrup: Adds moisture and helps prevent crystallization.
- Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the sugar and caramel.
- Heavy Cream: Provides a smooth texture and rich flavor to complement the caramel.
- Canned Condensed Milk: Rich in lactose which contributes to the caramel's depth and color.
- Pecan Pieces: Crunchy nuts that add texture and aroma to the candies.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, comforting taste that pairs well with both caramel and pecans.
- Baking Soda: A small amount helps prevent crystallization of sugar in the caramel.
- Butter: For added flavor and to ensure the caramel is smooth.
Incorporate these ingredients for the best results in your caramel pecan bars candies. Use keywords like "caramel," "pecans," and "candies" to optimize for search engines interested in homemade candy recipes or confectionery techniques.
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Steps
### Caramel Pecan Bar Candies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking to impress your family and friends? Try this delicious recipe for caramel pecan bar candies! These sweet treats are perfect for any occasion and make great homemade gifts. Follow these detailed steps and enjoy the mouthwatering flavor of classic caramel paired with crunchy pecans.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup (not glucose or high fructose)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
#### Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Candy thermometer
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Parchment paper for packaging (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
- Chop your pecans into small, even pieces.
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) if you plan on roasting the pecans before using them.
2. **Cook the Caramel:**
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup. Stir gently until fully incorporated.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook without stirring. The mixture will bubble and turn golden brown as it cooks.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; you want it to reach 320°F (160°C) for hard crack stage.
3. **Add Flavorings:**
- Once the caramel reaches the desired temperature, remove from heat immediately.
- Carefully stir in the melted butter and salt while the mixture is still hot. Be cautious as it will be very hot!
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. **Add Pecans:**
- Quickly fold in the chopped pecans into the caramel mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the pecan-caramel mixture onto a silicone baking mat or parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. **Set and Cut:**
- Allow the bars to cool at room temperature until firm but not hard (about 30 minutes). You can also place them in the refrigerator for quicker setting if needed.
- Once set, remove from the mat or pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
6. **Cut into Bars:**
- Using a sharp knife, cut the cooled caramel pecan mixture into bars of your desired size.
7. **Packaging (Optional):**
- Wrap each bar in parchment paper for an elegant presentation. You can also place them in small gift boxes or bags with ribbons tied around them for sharing.
8. **Storage:**
- Store the caramel pecan bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer storage.
### Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, you can roast the pecans before using them.
- Consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon for additional depth.
- Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to create homemade caramel pecan bar candies that are sure to impress. Enjoy sharing this sweet treat with loved ones and savoring the delightful combination of crunchy pecans in a luscious caramel sauce!