The Coziest Old Fashioned Pecan Candy Recipe for Sweet Comfort

Sweet southern traditions come alive with this irresistible old fashioned pecan candy recipe that brings generations of delectable memories to your kitchen.

Generations of cooks have perfected this classic treat, passing down techniques that create mouthwatering confections.

Buttery caramel coats each perfectly roasted pecan, creating a rich and indulgent experience.

Crisp textures and deep nutty flavors dance together in every single bite.

These candies carry the warmth of homemade comfort and the elegance of simple ingredients.

Crafted with love and precision, this recipe promises a delightful journey through southern culinary heritage.

You won’t be able to resist the temptation of these golden, crunchy pecan delights.

Old Fashioned Pecan Candy Full Of Nostalgia

• Pamper Your Pup: Craft a delightful, nutritious frozen treat that makes tails wag with pure joy.
• Nutrition Packed: Combine wholesome ingredients like banana, strawberries, yogurt, and peanut butter for a healthy snack that supports your dog's well-being.
• Simple Preparation: Blend ingredients, pour into molds, and freeze – no complicated cooking skills required for creating a refreshing doggy delight.
• Customizable Treats: Easily swap ingredients or adjust portions to match your furry friend's preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed For Old Fashioned Pecan Candy

• Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that helps create a smooth and glossy texture for the candy.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps form the candy's structure.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers a deep, chocolatey flavor and dark color to the candy.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and helps create a creamy, smooth consistency.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the candy.

• Pecans: Brings a delightful nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the old-fashioned candy.

Instructions For Making Old Fashioned Pecan Candy

Step 1: Melt Butter

Place butter in a saucepan and heat over medium temperature until completely melted and smooth.

Step 2: Create Sweet Chocolate Base

• Sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Evaporated milk

Stir ingredients continuously until they blend seamlessly into a uniform mixture.

Step 3: Boil and Thicken Candy

Increase heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture transforms into a thick, fudge-like texture.

Step 4: Add Flavor Enhancers

• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans

Stir vigorously to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the candy mixture.

Step 5: Shape Candy Drops

Use a spoon to drop small dollops of the warm candy mixture onto wax paper, allowing each piece to spread naturally.

Step 6: Cool and Set

Allow candy drops to rest at room temperature until they become completely firm and solidified.

Step 7: Store Delightful Treats

Transfer the hardened pecan candies into an airtight container.

These delectable sweets will remain fresh for up to one week when stored properly.

Tips For Old Fashioned Pecan Candy Success

• Select fresh, crisp pecans for the best flavor and crunch in your candy.
• Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise cooking and prevent burning the mixture.
• Spread wax paper or a silicone mat on a flat surface for easy candy removal and clean-up.
• Stir continuously while boiling to prevent sugar crystallization and achieve smooth texture.
• Keep candies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent softening.

Flavor Variations To Try With Pecan Candy

• Chocolate-Free Version: Replace cocoa powder with carob powder for a different flavor profile and lower caffeine content.
• Nutty Alternative: Swap pecans with toasted almonds or walnuts for a unique crunch and varied taste experience.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and coconut oil in place of butter to create a vegan-friendly candy.
• Spiced Sensation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a warm, unexpected flavor enhancement.

Pairing Ideas To Enjoy With Pecan Candy

• Pair Smooth Bourbon with Candy: Rich, aged bourbon like Woodford Reserve complements the sweet pecan candy's deep caramel notes, creating a luxurious tasting experience that enhances the nutty flavors.
• Serve Alongside Dark Roast Coffee: Strong, bold coffee with hints of chocolate brings out the candy's rich cocoa undertones, providing a robust counterpoint to the sweet treat's creamy texture.
• Create Dessert Plate with Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold vanilla ice cream acts as a perfect palate cleanser, balancing the candy's intense sweetness and offering a refreshing contrast to the warm, nutty pecans.
• Match with Salted Caramel Beverage: A salted caramel latte or hot chocolate echoes the candy's deep caramel profile while adding a sophisticated layer of complexity to the dessert experience.

Proper Storage Advice For Pecan Candy

• Place candy pieces in a sealed container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keeps fresh for 7-10 days in the coldest part of refrigerator.
• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store in freezer-safe bag. Maintains quality for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
• Keep in airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat. Best consumed within one week. Store in cool, dry spot to prevent softening.
• Microwave individual pieces for 5-7 seconds at 50% power. Alternatively, let candy sit at room temperature for soft, creamy texture. Avoid overheating to prevent burning.

FAQs

• Is this candy difficult to make?

The recipe is beginner-friendly and requires basic cooking skills. You just need to follow the steps carefully and watch the mixture closely while cooking.

• Do I need any special equipment?

You only need a saucepan, wooden spoon, and wax paper. No fancy kitchen tools are required to make this delicious pecan candy.

• How can I tell when the mixture is ready?

The mixture is ready when it reaches a thick, fudge-like consistency and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. It usually takes about 5 minutes of cooking.

• Can I substitute ingredients?

You can use milk chocolate instead of cocoa powder, and swap pecans for other nuts like walnuts. However, keep the basic proportions of ingredients the same for best results.

Old Fashioned Pecan Candy Recipe

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4.7 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet Southern charm fills kitchens with Old Fashioned Pecan Candy’s rich, nostalgic essence. Generations of family traditions melt together in this classic Southern treat that connects you to cherished memories and warm culinary heritage.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
• 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped

Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 (6-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Flavor Enhancer:

• 4 tablespoons cocoa powder

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, gently melt butter over moderate heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
2. Gradually incorporate sugar, cocoa powder, and evaporated milk, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
3. Elevate heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
4. Maintain a steady boil for approximately 5 minutes, monitoring the consistency until it thickens and resembles a glossy fudge texture.
5. Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and swiftly integrate vanilla extract, creating a rich aromatic base.
6. Fold in chopped pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the warm mixture.
7. Using a spoon, delicately drop dollops of the candy onto wax paper, allowing them to spread naturally.
8. Allow the candies to rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, permitting complete solidification.
9. Once fully set and cooled, transfer the pecan candies to an airtight container, where they will remain fresh for up to one week.

Notes

• Adjust heat carefully to prevent burning, as sugar can quickly caramelize and turn bitter during cooking.
• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add deeper complexity to the candy’s taste profile.
• Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, ensuring consistent texture and preventing crystallization.
• Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and pure vanilla extract to elevate the overall richness of the pecan candy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 237
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 48 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg