Description
This easy butter pecan fudge recipe delivers a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience with a delightful nutty crunch. It’s a family-friendly treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
- 3 cups (600 g) brown sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
- 1 cup (115 g) pecans, chopped, toasted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or maple extract)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, melt together the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture feels smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
- Bring to Boil: Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring just occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook without stirring until a candy thermometer reaches 235F (113C), the soft-ball stage (approximately 10-15 minutes).
- Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 5-10 minutes without stirring. Do not disturb it; the surface will lose some of its rapid bubbling. (If it cools too much, gently reheat it slightly, as beating a too-cold mixture can cause graininess.)
- Beat to Perfection: Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it thickens, loses its gloss, and holds its shape (usually 5-7 minutes). This process is crucial for truly creamy butter pecan fudge! The color will lighten and the mixture will look opaque.
- Fold in Nuts and Flavoring: Gently stir in the toasted pecans and vanilla extract until just combined. The mixture will still be warm but much thicker.
- Pour and Set: Quickly spread the fudge into a prepared 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan lined with parchment paper, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Let it cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge until firm (about 2-4 hours). It will feel solid to the touch when ready to cut.
Notes
A pinch of sea salt (about 0.25 teaspoon) can balance sweetness. Toasting pecans before adding is highly recommended for an intense nutty aroma. Avoid stirring the mixture while it boils to prevent grainy fudge. Ensure the mixture is cooked to the correct temperature (235F) to avoid fudge that is too soft or too hard.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (33g)
- Calories: 154 calories
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg
Keywords: easy dessert, butter pecan fudge, homemade fudge, creamy fudge, pecan, caramel, sweet treat, gluten-free, candy making