Easy Dark Chocolate Billionaires (Homemade Christmas Candy) Recipe
These Easy Dark Chocolate Billionaires are a delightful homemade Christmas candy featuring a luscious combination of smooth caramel, crunchy roasted pecans, crispy Rice Krispies, and rich dark chocolate coating. Perfect for gifting or festive gatherings, these bite-sized treats bring decadent flavors and textures together in simple steps.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 36 candies (using 1-inch scoops) 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Mixture
- 11 ounces caramel bits, or unwrapped caramels
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or water
Mix-ins
- 1½ cups chopped pecans, roasted
- 1 cup Rice Krispies
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups dark chocolate melting wafers or candy coating
Instructions
- Melt the caramel: Combine the caramel bits and one tablespoon of heavy cream or water in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, which should take about 8 to 9 minutes.
- Add pecans and Rice Krispies: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the roasted chopped pecans and Rice Krispies until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the caramel.
- Scoop the candy mixture: Using a 1-inch cookie scoop or melon baller, drop scoops of the mixture onto parchment or wax paper. Set them aside to cool and firm up slightly.
- Melt the chocolate coating: Place the dark chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe container. Microwave at half power or on the defrost setting for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely smooth.
- Dip the candies: Using kitchen tweezers, wooden skewers, or toothpicks, dip each caramel and pecan candy scoop into the melted chocolate, ensuring all sides are fully coated.
- Set the candy: Place the chocolate-covered candies on parchment or wax paper and allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature.
- Store: Once the chocolate has set, store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 to 5 days, or freeze for up to one month. For best storage, layer candies separated by parchment paper.
Notes
- Ghirardelli melting wafers are recommended for smooth chocolate coating, but milk chocolate can be used as a substitute if preferred.
- A small, deep microwave-safe container works well for melting chocolate and dipping the candies.
- Roast the pecans until just fragrant to avoid bitterness. For halves, roast at 350°F for 8-10 minutes; chopped pecans need about 4-5 minutes.
- If the caramel stiffens during work, gently reheat to soften before shaping.
- Rewarm the melted chocolate in short 10-second microwave bursts if it starts to thicken during dipping.
- Using smaller scoops ensures elegant bite-sized candies that are easier to dip and eat.
- Store finished candies layered with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking when storing.
- These candies make charming gifts especially if packed in decorative boxes or tins available at craft stores and specialty shops during the holidays.
Keywords: dark chocolate billionaires, homemade Christmas candy, caramel pecan candy, easy holiday treats, no bake candy, chocolate dipped candy, holiday gift candy
