Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this traditional Southern candy in your own kitchen.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and caramelized sugar offers a decadent taste experience.
- Perfect for Gifting: These clusters make for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and unsalted butter.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches 238°F (114°C) on a candy thermometer, known as the soft ball stage.
- Add Flavorings and Pecans:
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecan halves, and salt.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and begins to lose its glossy appearance.
- Form the Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters.
- Work quickly as the mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pecan clusters to cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for later.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 clusters
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Pecan Clusters: After the clusters have cooled, dip them halfway into melted dark or milk chocolate for an added layer of flavor.
- Spiced Pecan Clusters: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nut Mix: Use a mix of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans for a varied texture and taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the pecan clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the clusters in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What are New Orleans Pecan Clusters?
New Orleans Pecan Clusters, often referred to as pralines, are a traditional Southern candy made by coating toasted pecans in a caramel-like mixture of sugar, butter, and cream.
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How do I know when the sugar mixture reaches the soft ball stage?
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; the soft ball stage is at 238°F (114°C). Without a thermometer, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.
Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?
Yes, you can test for the soft ball stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready.
How should I store leftover pecan clusters?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to prevent over-salting.
Why did my clusters turn out sticky?
If your clusters are sticky, it may be because the sugar mixture didn’t reach the soft ball stage. Ensure the mixture reaches 238°F (114°C) for the correct consistency.
Can I add chocolate to this recipe?
Yes, after the clusters have cooled, you can drizzle melted chocolate over them or dip them halfway into melted chocolate for added flavor.
How long do these clusters take to harden?
They typically harden within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on room temperature.
New Orleans Pecan Clusters
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 clusters
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make traditional New Orleans Pecan Clusters at home! These Southern confections combine toasted pecans with a rich caramel-like coating, making them the perfect treat for gifting, special occasions, or indulging in sweet Southern flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pecans:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, until fragrant. Cool completely.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light brown sugar, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and unsalted butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 238°F (114°C), the soft ball stage.
- Add Flavorings and Pecans:
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and salt.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and loses its glossy appearance.
- Form the Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared sheet to form clusters.
- Work quickly before the mixture cools too much.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow clusters to cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container or enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Candy Thermometer: For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Variations: Add melted chocolate or spices like cinnamon for unique flavors.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
