Aunt Avis' Candy
A rich, nutty caramel candy with pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings and making an impressive homemade treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of sugar and the evaporated milk in a heavy pan.
- Meanwhile, melt the remaining 1 cup of sugar separately.
- Combine the two mixtures in the heavy pan.
- Add a pinch of baking soda carefully, as it will cause boiling.
- Immediately add the pecans to the mixture.
- Boil the mixture slowly until it reaches 237°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and beat the mixture by hand.
- Add the half stick of butter and stir until incorporated.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased surface to harden.
- Allow to cool and harden completely.
- Break into pieces and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning while boiling the sugar mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can make great substitutes. Make sure to stir constantly once you combine the mixtures to avoid scorching. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract after removing from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the candy into bite-sized pieces and serve as a sweet treat at gatherings or alongside coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Ruth'S Mystery Rolls for a comforting dessert spread. You can also package it as a homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Aunt Avis' Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the candy's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Avis' Candy contains roughly 254 calories, with 2g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if my candy doesn't reach the right temperature?
If your candy doesn't reach 237°F, it may not set properly. Try using a candy thermometer for accuracy. If it's too soft, you can reheat the mixture gently and try boiling again until it reaches the desired temperature. Just be careful not to scorch it during the process.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Aunt Avis' Candy dairy-free, substitute the evaporated milk with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Replace butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. The flavor will be slightly different, but it should still turn out delicious!
How can I make the candy more flavorful?
Consider adding flavor extracts such as vanilla, almond, or maple during the mixing process for a flavor boost. You can also mix in a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).