Description
This Old Fashioned Pecan Candy is a sweet, crunchy, and buttery treat that brings back nostalgic flavors. With toasted pecans coated in a rich, caramelized sugar syrup, this candy is perfect for gift-giving, holiday celebrations, or just as a special treat. It’s easy to make and absolutely irresistible! Whether you enjoy it as a snack or use it to decorate desserts, this pecan candy will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Toast the Pecans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast the pecans in the oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool. -
Make the Candy Syrup:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and water. Stir occasionally until the sugar has dissolved, and the butter has melted. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. -
Add the Pecans and Flavoring:
Stir the toasted pecans into the syrup, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for flavor balance. -
Cool and Set:
Spread the pecan mixture out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Allow the candy to cool completely, about 30 minutes to 1 hour. As it cools, the sugar syrup will harden and create a crunchy candy coating on the pecans. -
Break Into Pieces:
Once cooled and set, break the pecan candy into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For an extra kick, you can add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt to the candy mixture while cooking.
- If you prefer a smoother coating, you can gently heat the syrup a little longer until it reaches a candy-like consistency (around 240°F on a candy thermometer).
- If you want to make a larger batch, you can double or triple the ingredients, but be sure to spread the pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to cool properly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, Baked (for toasting pecans)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg