Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy – Sweet, Nutty, and Timeless

This Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy is a classic Southern-style treat that combines toasted pecans with a rich, caramel-like candy base that melts in your mouth. With just the right balance of sweetness and crunch, it’s a nostalgic dessert perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply savoring with a cup of coffee. Simple to make yet full of old-fashioned charm, this recipe brings back warm memories with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutty and Buttery – Pecans shine with their rich, toasty flavor.
Soft, Fudgy Texture – Melts in your mouth with a satisfying bite.
Simple Ingredients – No fancy tools or complicated steps required.
Great for Gifting – Package in tins or boxes for a thoughtful homemade present.

Ingredients

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ½ cup low-fat milk
• 1 tbsp light butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pecan halves
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

2. Make the Candy Base
In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, milk, butter, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened and caramel-colored.

3. Add Pecans and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and toasted pecans until evenly coated.

4. Portion the Candy
Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming small clusters. Let cool at room temperature until set, about 30–40 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Piece)

Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Sugar: 14g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook – Watch closely; cooking too long can make the candy hard instead of soft and fudgy.
• Use Fresh Pecans – Fresh, high-quality pecans give the best flavor and texture.
• Shape Quickly – The candy sets fast, so spoon it onto the baking sheet while still warm.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of brown sugar, milk, and butter creates a creamy, fudgy candy base without being overly heavy. Toasted pecans add depth and crunch, while the pinch of salt and vanilla bring balance to the sweetness. It’s a simple, classic candy that feels special every time.

Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy is a timeless treat with a perfect blend of sweetness, creaminess, and nutty crunch. Whether shared with loved ones or savored quietly, this nostalgic candy is sure to bring joy with every piece.