Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the delightful taste of butter pecan fudge! This treat is just so creamy and rich, with that wonderful nutty flavor that makes it utterly irresistible. I can’t help but think back to the holidays at my grandma’s house, where the sweet aroma of this fudge would fill the air as it cooled on the counter. Everyone would gather around, eagerly waiting for their piece, and you could just feel the joy! Trust me, once you try this buttery goodness, you’ll want to make it a staple for every family gathering.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Prepare Butter Pecan Fudge
Alright, let’s dive into making this luscious butter pecan fudge! It’s really not as daunting as it may seem, and I promise, you’ll be so pleased with the results. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of fudge that’s perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a medium-sized saucepan and combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Place it over medium heat and stir gently to mix everything.
- Keep stirring until the mixture comes to a boil—this should take just a couple of minutes. Once it starts bubbling, let it boil for exactly 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This is super important, so don’t walk away!
- After 5 minutes, remove the pan from heat. Now, it’s time to stir in your chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and you can see those delightful pecans peeking through.
- Next, pour the fudge mixture into a greased pan. I usually use an 8×8-inch square pan because it makes nice, thick squares. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Now, let it cool completely at room temperature. This usually takes about 2 hours, but if you’re like me and can’t wait, you might pop it in the fridge for a quicker set! Once it’s firm, cut it into squares and enjoy your homemade fudge!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in about 25 minutes!
- Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Delightfully nutty flavor from the pecans that adds a special touch.
- Perfect for sharing at parties, holidays, or just because!
- Homemade treats always feel more special than store-bought.
- You’ll impress friends and family with your candy-making skills!
Tips for Success
To make your butter pecan fudge truly exceptional, here are a few tips I swear by! First off, consider toasting your chopped pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the fudge. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch! Also, keep an eye on the temperature—using a candy thermometer can help you ensure that the mixture reaches the perfect boiling point. And when it comes to storing your fudge, make sure to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature; this helps maintain its creamy texture. Happy fudging!
Variations
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your butter pecan fudge! For a chocolatey twist, try adding chocolate chips to the mixture right after boiling; they’ll melt beautifully into the fudge. If you want to switch things up, consider using different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile. Want a little spice? A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your fudge. You can even swirl in some caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional aspects of this butter pecan fudge! Each piece is estimated to contain about 120 calories, making it a delightful treat without overindulging. You’ll find 7g of fat and 1g of protein per piece, along with 15g of carbohydrates and 15g of sugar. Plus, there’s a touch of sodium at 30mg. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use or how big you cut your squares. Enjoy this fudge as a sweet treat, but remember, moderation is key!
FAQ Section
How do I store butter pecan fudge?
To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its creamy texture and nutty flavor. If you live in a very warm climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent it from getting too soft.
How long does butter pecan fudge last?
When stored properly, your fudge can last for about 1-2 weeks at room temperature. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap each piece well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I substitute the pecans?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just be mindful that different nuts will bring their own unique flavor and crunch to the fudge.
What if I want a dairy-free version?
You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter for a tasty dairy-free butter pecan fudge. Just make sure to check the labels for any hidden dairy ingredients!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your leftover butter pecan fudge fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. If you live in a warmer climate, consider popping it in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying, as it will soften nicely. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. No need to reheat—just enjoy it chilled for that perfect fudge experience!
Print
Butter Pecan Fudge: 5 Irresistibly Creamy Delights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy butter pecan fudge with a delightful nutty flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat.
- Stir until the mixture reaches a boil.
- Allow it to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in pecans, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pan.
- Let it cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container.
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise cooking temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: butter pecan fudge
