Imagine a dessert so luxurious, it feels like a forbidden treasure melting in your mouth - that's exactly what these Maple Pecan Caramel Chocolate Cups deliver! With a perfect balance of rich dark chocolate, buttery caramel, and crunchy pecans, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary treat that will have everyone begging for your secret. Whether you're a chocolate lover, a caramel enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates gourmet desserts, these irresistible cups are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 25 mins
Cuisine: Dessert
Serves: 12 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with silicone or paper cupcake liners, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- Melt dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and completely liquefied.
- Using a small pastry brush or spoon, carefully coat the bottom and sides of each cupcake liner with a thin layer of melted chocolate, creating a chocolate shell. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
- In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture begins to bubble and thicken.
- Continue cooking caramel mixture for 3-4 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The caramel should reach a golden brown color and slightly thickened consistency.
- Remove caramel from heat and stir in chopped pecans and sea salt. Allow mixture to cool for 5 minutes.
- Spoon a small amount of pecan caramel into each chocolate-lined cup, filling approximately 2/3 full.
- Pour remaining melted chocolate over caramel layer, ensuring complete coverage and smooth top.
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for garnish if desired.
- Refrigerate chocolate cups for 1 hour or until completely set and firm.
- Gently remove cups from liners and serve chilled. Store in refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Tips
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the most intense flavor
- Watch your caramel carefully to prevent burning - it can go from perfect to burnt quickly
- Ensure your chocolate shells are evenly and thinly coated for the best texture
- Use a candy thermometer for precise caramel cooking if you're a perfectionist
- Allow proper cooling time between layers to maintain distinct flavor and texture
- Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent flavor absorption
- For a more professional look, use a pastry brush when coating chocolate liners
- Room temperature ingredients help create smoother caramel and chocolate layers
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 126kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
