Description
Caramel Pecan Fudge is a rich and creamy treat that perfectly balances buttery caramel with crunchy toasted pecans. This melt-in-your-mouth confection uses simple pantry ingredients and is perfect for gifting or satisfying sweet cravings. The smooth texture combined with nutty crunch makes it an irresistible dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan and Pecans: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal later. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Caramel Base: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and salt over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture heats to prevent burning.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer and bring the mixture to the soft ball stage (between 234°F and 240°F). This ensures your fudge will set properly without being dry or runny.
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavorings: Take the pan off the stove, then quickly stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans until well combined.
- Pour and Chill: Immediately pour the mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly toasted nuts provide superior crunch and flavor compared to pre-packaged.
- Monitor Temperature: Consistently check with a candy thermometer to hit the perfect soft ball stage.
- Stir Constantly: Prevent scorching by stirring the sugar mixture without pause while cooking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use butter and condensed milk at room temperature for even melting and blending.
- Store Properly: Keep fudge airtight to maintain its creamy texture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 1.5 inch)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: caramel fudge, pecan fudge, homemade fudge, nutty caramel dessert, easy fudge recipe, holiday fudge, sweet treats