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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, gently melt butter over moderate heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Gradually incorporate sugar, cocoa powder, and evaporated milk, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
- Elevate heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
- Maintain a steady boil for approximately 5 minutes, monitoring the consistency until it thickens and resembles a glossy fudge texture.
- Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and swiftly integrate vanilla extract, creating a rich aromatic base.
- Fold in chopped pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the warm mixture.
- Using a spoon, delicately drop dollops of the candy onto wax paper, allowing them to spread naturally.
- Allow the candies to rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, permitting complete solidification.
- 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