If you’re searching for a truly timeless Southern treat, look no further than Old Fashion Pecan Candy. This melt-in-your-mouth confection is rich, creamy, and bursting with buttery pecan flavor—a recipe passed down through generations and guaranteed to win hearts at any gathering. With just a handful of pantry staples and a sprinkle of patience, you’ll find yourself transported to the days when sharing sweets with neighbors was the highlight of any holiday. Old Fashion Pecan Candy is simple to make but impressive on any table—a bite of nostalgia that’ll have folks asking for the recipe again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Old Fashion Pecan Candy is easier than you might think, but every ingredient plays an essential role in capturing its signature taste and satisfyingly creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a tip for each one to get you candy-shop results.
- Granulated Sugar: This classic sweetener forms the backbone of the candy, giving it structure and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Light Brown Sugar (packed): Adds a hint of molasses flavor and gives the candy a beautiful caramel color and warmth.
- Evaporated Milk: Creates a creamy, smooth texture and helps achieve that soft, luscious bite.
- Unsalted Butter: For richness and depth—the added fat helps the candy set and adds irresistible flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the complexity and rounds out the sweetness with fragrant notes.
- Pecan Halves: The star of the show! Toast them lightly beforehand for even more crunch and nutty aroma.
How to Make Old Fashion Pecan Candy
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it aside. This ensures the finished candy won’t stick, and you’ll be able to remove each piece effortlessly. Have your parchment and spoons ready—once the mixture thickens, you’ll need to work quickly!
Step 2: Combine Sugars and Milk
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly as the sugars melt, blending together for a smooth start—this is where your candy’s creamy foundation begins.
Step 3: Cook to Soft Ball Stage
Keep stirring as the mixture comes to a steady boil. Watch closely and continue cooking, stirring often, until the candy thermometer reads between 235 and 240°F (the “soft ball” stage). This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth Old Fashion Pecan Candy texture.
Step 4: Add Butter and Flavorings
Once you hit the right temperature, take the pan off the heat right away. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract, blending them in for extra silkiness and flavor depth.
Step 5: Stir in Pecans and Beat Until Creamy
Immediately pour in those beautiful pecan halves. Stir vigorously—almost like you’re folding in sunshine itself—until the mixture thickens and takes on a creamy, almost praline-like look. It should begin to hold its shape with each turn of the spoon.
Step 6: Portion and Set
Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the thickened candy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Let the candies cool completely; as they set, the exterior turns delightfully crisp while the center stays soft and creamy. Once cool, you’re ready to taste pure Southern magic!
How to Serve Old Fashion Pecan Candy
Garnishes
Top each piece with a single toasted pecan half or a light sprinkle of sea salt just before the candy sets. These simple touches accentuate the nutty flavor and add a pretty finishing flourish—making your Old Fashion Pecan Candy look as lovely as it tastes.
Side Dishes
While Old Fashion Pecan Candy truly stands on its own, it pairs beautifully with a cool glass of milk, a cup of hot coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic dessert plate. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture is a delightful counterpoint to crisp cookies or fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the candy in pretty tins lined with wax paper for gift giving, or pile them high on a footed cake stand as the centerpiece at your next holiday gathering. For extra fun, tie a few pieces in clear cellophane bags with a ribbon and a handwritten tag—Old Fashion Pecan Candy makes the sweetest party favor or hostess gift around!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Old Fashion Pecan Candy has cooled and set, pop any extras into an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, these treats will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week—if they last that long! Just make sure to keep them away from moisture and heat to maintain their signature texture.
Freezing
Old Fashion Pecan Candy can be frozen if needed. Arrange candies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, using parchment between each layer to prevent sticking. Seal tightly and freeze for up to two months. Let them come to room temperature before enjoying—this brings back the creamy goodness you love.
Reheating
If your candy becomes extra firm during storage, you can soften it slightly by letting it sit at room temperature for several hours. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can alter the texture, but if you must, try a few seconds at a very low power and keep a close eye on it.
FAQs
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?
Absolutely! Using dark brown sugar will deepen the caramel notes and enhance the color. Just know it may give your Old Fashion Pecan Candy a slightly richer flavor—deliciously different, but still classic.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
No worries. You can test the soft ball stage by dropping a small spoonful of the hot mixture into a cup of cold water. If it forms a soft, flexible ball you can press with your fingers, it’s ready to come off the heat.
Why is my candy grainy or too hard?
Graininess can happen if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved or if the mixture cooks past the soft ball stage. Be sure to stir constantly and remove the pan at just the right temperature for that classic creamy texture Old Fashion Pecan Candy is known for.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can, but use a large, heavy-bottomed pot to avoid boiling over and make sure you can handle the candy quickly once it’s ready. Working in batches may help you shape each piece before it sets.
Is Old Fashion Pecan Candy gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with wheat sensitivities. Always check your vanilla extract and other packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sharing a sweet tray of Old Fashion Pecan Candy with the people you love. Whether you’re gifting, entertaining, or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this recipe has all the heart and nostalgia of a true Southern classic. Give it a try—your kitchen (and everyone in it) will thank you!
Print
Old Fashion Pecan Candy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of this Old Fashion Pecan Candy recipe. A Southern classic, this praline-style treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special homemade gift.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare the Candy Mixture: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it boils.
- Cook the Candy: Cook, stirring often, until it reaches the soft ball stage. Remove from heat and quickly add butter, vanilla, and pecans. Stir until thickened.
- Shape and Cool: Drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet. Let cool until set.
Notes
- Work quickly once the candy is ready to prevent hardening.
- To enhance flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
