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–+ servings
Caramel Nut Clusters
Carmel Nut Clusters are a classic mid-century American confection that reflects the era’s love of quick, stovetop sweets using pantry staples. This recipe cleverly uses instant butterscotch pudding as a shortcut to achieve a rich caramel-like flavor without the need for traditional candy-making techniques. The mixture is cooked gently until it thickens into a chewy, fudgy consistency, then combined with nuts for texture and dropped into clusters. These treats became popular for their simplicity, affordability, and crowd-pleasing sweetness, often appearing at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and dessert trays where easy, homemade candy was always appreciated.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 36
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3.4 oz butterscotch pudding mix (1 package)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup canned milk (evaporated milk)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 ½ cups nuts (walnuts or pecans, chopped)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

  • In a saucepan, mix the butterscotch pudding mix, sugar, canned milk, and butter until smooth.

Step 2: Heat Mixture

  • Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Bring to Boil

  • Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a slow boil, continuing to stir often.

Step 4: Thicken

  • Continue cooking until the mixture forms a soft ball consistency (thick and slightly firm when dropped in cold water).

Step 5: Cool Slightly

  • Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool until it begins to thicken.

Step 6: Add Nuts

  • Stir in the chopped nuts until evenly coated.

Step 7: Form Clusters

  • Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto waxed paper.

Step 8: Set

  • Let stand at room temperature until firm.

Tips

  • Use pecans for a richer, buttery flavor.
  • Add a pinch of salt for a salted caramel twist.
  • Stir in shredded coconut for extra texture.
  • Use half chocolate pudding mix for a caramel-chocolate blend.
  • Drop onto parchment instead of waxed paper for easier removal.
  • Add a splash of vanilla extract after cooking for enhanced flavor.
  • Make smaller clusters for bite-sized treats.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 80IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword candy, dessert, no-bake, nuts, quick treat, retro recipes, sweet tooth, vintage recipes
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