Best 3 Southern Pecan Candy Recipes

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Indulge your taste buds in the delectable goodness of Southern pecan candy, a timeless classic that has captivated hearts for generations. Embark on a culinary journey to discover the secrets of crafting this irresistible confection, a harmonious blend of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors that will transport you to the heart of Southern hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice just starting, our comprehensive guide will equip you with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and variations to satisfy every craving.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

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

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.

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

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 COATED PECANS



Southern Coated Pecans image

A very old recipe which I might have found in a Junior League cookbook. Sweet with cinnamon and vanilla but not overpowering so you can still taste the pecans. They're very quick to make and nice to include in gift baskets. This is a simple candy recipe that's much more forgiving than most. Total cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Provided by LonghornMama

Categories     Candy

Time 15m

Yield 5 cups

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup cold water
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 lb pecan halves (about 4 1/2 cups)

Steps:

  • Combine all ingredients except pecans in heavy pot and cook 10 minutes or until bubbles cook down.
  • Add pecans and stir until all are coated.
  • Continue stirring until syrup turns to sugar.
  • Pour onto cookie sheet and separate.

Tips

- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the candy from scorching. - Stir the candy constantly to prevent it from crystallizing. - Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the candy reaches the correct temperature. - Drop the candy by teaspoonfuls into cold water to test its consistency. The candy should be firm enough to hold its shape but still soft and chewy. - Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

Southern pecan candy is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of candy that is sure to please everyone. So next time you are looking for a sweet treat, give southern pecan candy a try. You won't be disappointed!

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