Chocolate-Caramel Pecan Clusters

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the pecans in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet; toast in oven until fragrant, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven (leave the oven on); set aside 36 pecans on the baking sheet. Finely chop the remaining pecans (for about 1/4 cup); set aside.

   Step 2

   When the pecans are cool enough to handle, make 12 clusters by arranging 2 pecans vertically, side by side, below 1 pecan placed horizontally. Gently flatten each caramel; place 1 on top of each cluster. Bake the clusters 5 minutes. Remove from the oven (leave the oven on).

   Step 3

   Place 1 piece of chocolate on top of each cluster. Return to the oven; bake until the chocolate begins to melt, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the oven. With the back of a spoon, gently spread the chocolate over the caramel without completely covering it.

   Step 4

   Sprinkle the clusters with the reserved chopped pecans. Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes. Bring to room temperature before serving.