If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert sauce that perfectly balances sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors, this Caramel Chocolate Pecan Sauce will make your dreams come true.
It’s smooth, buttery, and full of deep caramel richness, enhanced by melted chocolate and crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, cheesecake, or even fresh fruit, this sauce transforms any simple dessert into a gourmet masterpiece.
Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and can be stored in your fridge or freezer, ready to elevate your desserts anytime.
Ingredients
Makes about 2 cups of sauce
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (60g) toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel Base
- In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously with a heatproof spatula until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color.
Step 2: Add Butter
- Once the caramel reaches a smooth consistency, carefully add the butter. It will bubble rapidly — continue stirring until the butter melts completely.
Step 3: Add Cream
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble again. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Vanilla
- Remove from heat and stir in the dark chocolate and vanilla extract until the chocolate melts and combines evenly.
Step 5: Mix in Pecans
- Stir in the toasted pecans and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or serving dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle warm over vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.
- Pour over cheesecake, pancakes, or brownies for a luxurious touch.
- Use as a dip for apple slices or pretzels for a sweet-and-salty snack.
- Spread on toast or waffles for a rich breakfast treat.
- Spoon into small jars for homemade edible gifts.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 tablespoons) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Protein | 1 gram |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Sugars | 16 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 45 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Pecans add healthy fats, magnesium, and protein.
- Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and a rich, deep cocoa flavor.
- Use reduced-fat cream or coconut cream for a lighter alternative.
- Replace sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a microwave or over low heat until pourable — stir before serving.
Variations to Try
- Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Sauce: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt for a salty-sweet finish.
- Espresso Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso for a mocha version.
- Bourbon Pecan Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon of bourbon for a grown-up flavor boost.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
This Caramel Chocolate Pecan Sauce brings together the richness of caramel, the depth of dark chocolate, and the crunch of toasted pecans in one luxurious drizzle.
Whether you use it to dress up desserts or enjoy it by the spoonful, this sauce promises pure indulgence in every bite.
Keep a jar in your fridge, and you’ll always have a way to turn an ordinary treat into something extraordinary.