Old Fashion Pecan Candy

There’s something about Old Fashion Pecan Candy that just takes you back to the good old days, doesn’t it? It’s like a warm hug from the past, with that perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery goodness. Each bite offers a crunchy, caramelized exterior with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth center, and of course, those deliciously toasted pecans. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays or just because you’re craving something sweet, this treat is a nostalgic classic that’s always a hit. Trust me, once you’ve had a bite, you’ll be reaching for another and another—this one’s a serious crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love Old Fashion Pecan Candy

• Nostalgic: This recipe takes you back to the simpler days of homemade sweets, reminding you of childhood treats or family gatherings.
• Irresistible Texture: The crunch of the toasted pecans combined with the smooth, chewy candy makes for the perfect texture balance.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to make this candy. No fancy ingredients, just classic comfort.
• Perfect Gift: Packaged up in a jar or gift box, this candy makes a lovely homemade gift. Perfect for the holidays or a thoughtful surprise for a friend.
• Sweet and Buttery: The rich, buttery flavor, complemented by the sweetness of sugar and the earthiness of pecans, is an irresistible combination.

Ingredients

For this Old Fashion Pecan Candy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pecans: The star ingredient. Toasted pecans bring a deep, nutty flavor that’s perfect for this candy.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the candy’s texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the candy and helps create that signature caramelized exterior.
• Heavy Cream: Provides a smooth and creamy texture that balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and highlight the flavor of the pecans.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are included in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on making this Old Fashion Pecan Candy!

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Toast the pecans in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant. This step really enhances the nutty flavor and adds a perfect crunch.
3. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Candy Mixture

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the granulated sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir the mixture constantly to combine, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly. Stir often to prevent it from burning.
3. Once it has thickened and is golden brown in color, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine with Pecans

1. Fold the toasted pecans into the candy mixture, making sure the nuts are well-coated with the caramel sauce.
2. Pour the candy mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly to form an even layer.

Step 4: Set and Cool

1. Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature. As it cools, the candy will set and become firm.
2. Once cooled, break the candy into pieces. You can break it into large shards for a rustic look or cut it into smaller squares.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional value per piece of Old Fashion Pecan Candy (based on a serving size of 1 piece):

• Calories: 160-200
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Calcium: 15mg
• Iron: 0.5mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve Old Fashion Pecan Candy

• As a Snack: Enjoy it as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
• For Gifting: Pack it in a cute jar or box with a ribbon for a homemade gift that will surely delight anyone who receives it.
• On a Dessert Table: Serve it alongside other treats at a holiday or party dessert table for a crunchy, sweet option.
• With Ice Cream: Crumble over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Additional Tips

• Toast the Pecans: Don’t skip toasting the pecans! It brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, making the candy even better.
• Storage: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you need it to last longer, you can store it in the fridge.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a twist on the traditional pecan version.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this candy ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This candy stores really well. You can make it ahead and keep it in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Q2: How do I store this candy?
A2: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. If you need to keep it for a longer time, you can store it in the refrigerator.

Q3: Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
A3: Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them first for the best flavor.

Q4: Can I make this candy without heavy cream?
A4: You can substitute the heavy cream with evaporated milk, but the texture and richness might be a bit different. The heavy cream gives it that smooth, rich texture.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just be sure to use a larger saucepan and baking sheet, and keep an eye on the cooking time.

Q6: How can I make this candy more caramelized?
A6: If you like a deeper caramel flavor, let the mixture cook for a bit longer (about 1-2 extra minutes). Just be sure to stir it constantly to avoid burning.

Q7: Can I freeze this candy?
A7: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the candy for up to 3 months. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and defrost it at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Q8: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
A8: Unfortunately, this recipe isn’t vegan due to the butter and heavy cream. You can try using dairy-free butter and coconut cream as substitutions if you’d like a dairy-free version.

Q9: Can I add chocolate to this candy?
A9: Yes! Drizzle melted chocolate over the candy after it cools for a chocolatey twist. It pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery pecans.

Q10: Why is my candy too soft?
A10: If the candy is too soft, it likely wasn’t cooked long enough. Make sure the sugar and cream mixture reaches a gentle simmer and thickens slightly before removing it from the heat.

Conclusion

This Old Fashion Pecan Candy is a timeless treat that combines simplicity with a whole lot of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, as a homemade gift, or just because you want something sweet, it’s bound to become a favorite. The crunchy, buttery pecans and sweet, caramelized coating make for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s pure comfort in every bite. Enjoy!

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