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This Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy recipe is a classic treat that’s rich, sweet, and loaded with crunchy pecans. It’s a no-fail recipe that’s perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. Don’t lose this one—it’s a keeper! 🍬
Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 stick (½ cup) salted butter
- 4 tablespoons light cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 (6 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, cocoa powder, and evaporated milk. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (about 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer). This should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Test for Doneness:
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the candy by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape but is still pliable, it’s ready.
- Add Vanilla and Pecans:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Mix well to ensure the pecans are evenly distributed.
- Pour and Cool:
- Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Let It Set:
- Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature until it’s firm. This may take 1-2 hours.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once the candy has set, cut it into squares or break it into pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the candy mixture.
- Be careful not to overcook the candy, as it can become too hard. The soft-ball stage is key for the perfect texture.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use finely chopped pecans or even grind them slightly.
Enjoy this old-fashioned pecan candy—it’s a nostalgic treat that’s sure to delight! 🥜🍫
