Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these billionaires will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No oven required. Just stovetop and microwave.
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Ready in under 30 minutes (plus chilling).
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Crunchy and chewy. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves caramel and chocolate.
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Budget-friendly. Pecans, cereal, and chocolate are inexpensive.
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Perfect for holidays, gifts, and snacking.
Ingredients
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2 cups caramel nibs
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4 tablespoons water
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1.5 cups pecans, chopped
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1 cup Rice Krispy cereal
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3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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2 tablespoons shortening
Ingredient Notes
Caramel nibs: Use caramel nibs or unwrapped soft caramels.
Pecans: Use chopped pecans. Toast them for extra flavor.
Rice Krispy cereal: Adds crunch and lightness.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Creates the chocolate coating.
Shortening: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set with a shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pans
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or waxed paper. You may grease them lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the caramel nibs with the water and melt, stirring until smooth and loose. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Add the Crunch
Stir in the chopped pecans and Rice Krispy cereal until thoroughly coated with the melted caramel.
Step 4: Form the Clusters
Drop the warm mixture by the spoonful onto the prepared pans. Shape them into mounds or flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Chill the Centers
Refrigerate the pans for 10 to 15 minutes until the caramel cools completely and the candy sets firmly.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips with the shortening in the microwave in short bursts of 15 to 30 seconds, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Coat and Set
Dip the chilled caramel candy into the melted chocolate or drizzle the chocolate generously over the top. Place them back on the prepared baking sheets. Refrigerate for about an hour until the chocolate is completely set and hardened.
How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Billionaires
These decadent candies are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Coffee: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
With Ice Cream: Crumble over vanilla ice cream.
As a Gift: Package in decorative bags or tins.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries.
With Sea Salt: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the chocolate sets.
Variations & Tips
Make Them with Almonds: Substitute almonds for pecans.
Make Them with Walnuts: Use walnuts instead of pecans.
Make Them with Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips.
Make Them with Milk Chocolate: Use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
Make Them with White Chocolate: Drizzle with white chocolate.
Make Them with Coconut: Add shredded coconut.
Make Them with Pretzels: Add crushed pretzels for extra saltiness.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Rice Krispy cereal.
Make Them Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and shortening.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overheat the caramel. Melt it slowly over low heat.
Toast the pecans for extra flavor. This is optional but recommended.
Chill the centers completely. This prevents them from melting in the chocolate.
Use a fork to dip the candies. This makes coating easier.
Tap off excess chocolate. This prevents pooling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different caramel?
Yes. Soft caramels can be used.
Can I use a different nut?
Yes. Almonds or walnuts can be used.
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes. Crisp rice cereal is best.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze these candies?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do they last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Why is my caramel hard?
It was overheated. Melt slowly over low heat.
Why is my chocolate not shiny?
The chocolate was not tempered. Use shortening for a glossy finish.
Can I add more mix-ins?
Yes. Add up to 2 cups of mix-ins.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any baking sheet works.
The Beauty of Homemade Candy
There is something deeply satisfying about making candy at home. It is the kind of treat that makes people happy. These chocolate pecan billionaires are a celebration of all those things.
Keep caramel, pecans, cereal, and chocolate in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour (chilling)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings