Chocolate Billionaires are the ultimate homemade candy treat—crunchy, chewy, nutty, and coated in a luscious layer of milk chocolate. Each bite delivers smooth caramel, crisp rice cereal, and toasted pecans wrapped in a creamy chocolate shell. Perfect for gifting, holiday trays, or satisfying a sweet craving, these no-bake clusters are as impressive as they are easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy no-bake candy that comes together quickly
Perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and creamy textures
Great for holidays, cookie trays, and edible gifts
Simple pantry ingredients
Customizable with different chocolates and mix-ins
Stores beautifully for make-ahead treats
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Step 1: Prepare the baking sheets
Line two baking sheets with waxed paper. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the caramel
In a large heavy saucepan, combine the caramels and water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until completely melted and smooth. This may take several minutes—keep the heat low to prevent scorching.
Step 3: Add pecans and cereal
Stir in the chopped pecans and Rice Krispies. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated in the caramel.
Step 4: Form the clusters
Drop the mixture by teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them slightly apart. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes, or until firm.
Step 5: Melt the chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Dip in chocolate
Dip each chilled caramel cluster into the melted chocolate, coating all sides. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then return the coated clusters to the lined baking sheets.
Step 7: Chill until set
Refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely firm. Transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 36 candies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 50 minutes
Variations
White chocolate version
Substitute white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier finish.
Dark chocolate twist
Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
Sea salt topping
Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top immediately after dipping for a sweet-salty contrast.
Nut swaps
Replace pecans with chopped almonds or walnuts for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Festive shapes
Spoon the caramel mixture into silicone molds instead of forming clusters for themed candies.
Storage/Reheating
Store Chocolate Billionaires in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to prevent melting.
To freeze, wrap candies individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating is not required, but if chocolate develops condensation after refrigeration, allow candies to sit at room temperature until dry before serving.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate works beautifully and creates a richer, more intense flavor.
Why do I need to add water to the caramels?
The water helps the caramels melt smoothly and prevents them from sticking or burning.
Can I skip the shortening?
Shortening helps thin and smooth the chocolate for easier dipping. You may substitute coconut oil if preferred.
What if my chocolate seizes?
Make sure no water touches the chocolate and melt it slowly in intervals, stirring frequently.
Can I use homemade caramel?
Yes, but ensure it is thick and chewy enough to hold the clusters together.
Do I have to refrigerate the clusters before dipping?
Yes, chilling firms them up, making dipping much easier and less messy.
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes, any crisp rice cereal or similar crunchy cereal can work as a substitute.
How do I prevent the chocolate from pooling at the bottom?
Let excess chocolate drip off thoroughly before placing the candies back onto the waxed paper.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and work in batches when melting chocolate.
Are these good for gifting?
Yes, they store well and hold their shape, making them perfect for holiday tins or treat boxes.
Conclusion
Chocolate Billionaires are a delightful homemade candy that combines rich caramel, crunchy pecans, crispy cereal, and smooth chocolate in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re ideal for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want a decadent treat. Once you make a batch, it’s easy to see why these irresistible clusters quickly become a favorite.
Chocolate Billionaires are indulgent no-bake candy clusters made with chewy caramel, crunchy pecans, crisp rice cereal, and coated in smooth milk chocolate. Perfect for gifting or holiday treats, they deliver a delicious balance of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures in every bite.
Ingredients
14 ounces soft caramels, unwrapped
3 tablespoons water
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
3 cups milk chocolate chips
1 1/2 teaspoons shortening
Instructions
Line two baking sheets with waxed paper and lightly grease to prevent sticking.
In a heavy saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with water, stirring constantly until smooth.
Stir in chopped pecans and Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
Drop mixture by teaspoonfuls onto prepared sheets and refrigerate for 10 minutes until firm.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip each chilled cluster into melted chocolate, coating completely. Let excess chocolate drip off.
Return to baking sheets and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until chocolate is fully set.
Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Keep heat low when melting caramel to prevent scorching.
Chill clusters before dipping for easier handling.
Substitute coconut oil for shortening if desired.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chocolate sets for a sweet-salty finish.
Store in a cool place to maintain chocolate firmness.
