Description
This Old Fashion Pecan Candy is a classic Southern treat made with buttery caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans. Perfectly sweet, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, this homemade candy is easy to make and great for gifting or enjoying as a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- Sugar Mixture:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Flavor & Texture:
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans – In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to enhance their flavor.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture – In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Add the Pecans – Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, baking soda, and toasted pecans. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Shape the Candy – Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper, spacing them apart. Let them cool and harden.
- Enjoy! – Once set, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later.
Notes
Stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning.
Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy; 235°F is the key temperature for soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
If the candy mixture hardens too quickly, place the pan over low heat and stir gently to soften.
Store pecan candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: pecan candy, Southern pecan pralines, old-fashioned candy, homemade pecan candy, praline recipe