Here’s an Old-Fashioned Pecan Candy recipe that you’ll want to keep forever! This Southern classic is rich, buttery, and melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Prepare: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
2. Heat Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until butter is melted.
3. Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F – 240°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
4. Add Pecans & Vanilla: Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and pecans. Keep stirring for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture thickens and begins to lose its shine.
5. Scoop & Set: Drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet and let them cool for 30 minutes or until fully set.
6. Enjoy: Store in an airtight container for up to one week—if they last that long!
Tips for Perfect Pecan Candy
• Use fresh, toasted pecans for the best flavor.
• Don’t stir too much once it starts boiling, or it may get grainy.
• If your candy is too soft, it may need to be cooked slightly longer; if too hard, reduce the cooking time next batch.
This old-fashioned pecan candy is a true Southern treasure—don’t lose this recipe!