Best 2 Southern Pecan Candy Recipes

In the realm of delectable Southern treats, pecan candy stands tall as a symbol of indulgence and charm. With its rich history and captivating taste, this confection has won hearts and palates across generations. From the classic Southern Pecan Candy, a symphony of caramelized pecans enrobed in a buttery toffee coating, to the tantalizing Chocolate Pecan Candy, where nuts meet the richness of dark chocolate, this article offers a delightful journey through the world of pecan candy recipes. You'll also discover the secrets of creating the irresistible Pecan Pralines, where pecans take center stage, enveloped in a luscious praline coating. And for those with a sweet tooth craving something different, the Maple Pecan Candy offers a unique blend of maple syrup and pecans, resulting in a chewy, flavorful delight. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you effortlessly, allowing you to create these Southern gems right at home.

Let's cook with our recipes!

TEEDEE'S PECAN CANDY

TeeDee's Pecan Candy image

This is a Louisiana favorite. I have to make it every Christmas for my family.

Provided by LATEDRA75

Categories Desserts Nut Dessert Recipes Pecan Dessert Recipes

Time 1h

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

2 teaspoons butter, or as needed
2 (12 fluid ounce) cans evaporated milk
1 ½ cups white sugar
2 cups pecans
¼ cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract

Steps:

Grease a 9x13-inch pan with 2 teaspoons butter.
Combine evaporated milk with sugar in a heavy, large stockpot and place over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring to a boil. Cook the syrup, stirring often, until a candy thermometer reads 235 degrees F (110 degrees C) or a small spoonful of syrup dropped into a glass of cold water forms a soft ball, 5 to 8 minutes.
Stir pecans and butter into the syrup and continue to cook until solid crystals of candy begin to form on the side of the pot, about 30 minutes. Remove from heat and stir vanilla and almond extracts into candy.
Pour candy into prepared dish and let cool for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 173.7 calories, Carbohydrate 16.9 g, Cholesterol 15.1 mg, Fat 11.1 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 3 g, SaturatedFat 3.4 g, Sodium 49.4 mg, Sugar 16 g

SOUTHERN PECAN CANDY

Southern Pecan Candy image

Unlike traditional pralines, this recipe is spread in a pan, then cut into squares. It is loaded with pecans and has the same sweet taste as pralines. The candy was in my mother's recipe collection and dates back to 1941.-June Moffett, Santa Ana, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Desserts

Time 55m

Yield about 2 pounds.

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

1 teaspoon butter plus 1/4 cup butter, cubed
3 cups sugar, divided
1 cup half-and-half cream
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound chopped pecans, toasted

Steps:

Line a 13-in. x 9-in. pan with foil and grease the foil with 1 teaspoon butter; set aside. In a large heavy skillet over medium-low heat, cook 1 cup sugar until melted. Do not stir. Reduce heat to low; cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown., In a large saucepan, combine cream and remaining sugar. Slowly pour in cooked sugar. Cook and stir over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 236° (soft-ball stage). Transfer to a large bowl; stir in butter and baking soda. Cool until mixture reaches 110°., Add vanilla. Beat until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in pecans. Quickly spread into prepared pan; cool completely. Using foil, lift candy out of pan. Discard foil. Store candy in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 194 calories, Fat 12g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 8mg cholesterol, Sodium 20mg sodium, Carbohydrate 21g carbohydrate (20g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 2g protein.

Tips:

Use fresh pecans. This will ensure that your candy has the best flavor and texture.
Toast the pecans before using them. This will help to bring out their flavor and make them more crunchy.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the sugar syrup. This is essential to ensure that the syrup reaches the correct temperature for making candy.
Don't stir the sugar syrup while it is cooking. This can cause the sugar crystals to recrystallize and make the candy grainy.
Be patient. Making candy takes time. Don't rush the process or you may end up with candy that is not properly set.

Conclusion:

Southern pecan candy is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. The best part about it is that you can customize using different nuts or dried fruits to create your own unique recipe. So next time you're looking for a sweet and satisfying snack, give southern pecan candy a try. You won't be disappointed!