Butter Pecan Candy
Sweet and nutty butter pecan candies with roasted pecans and creamy vanilla flavor, perfect for holiday gift-giving or a delightful treat for pecan lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roast chopped pecans in butter at 250°F for 15 minutes.
- Melt cream cheese in the top of a double boiler.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla to the melted cream cheese.
- Mix well until smooth; then add the roasted nuts.
- Drop teaspoon-sized amounts onto waxed paper and let dry on one side.
- Turn each piece over and let dry on the other side.
- Store in a covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture. If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans. To avoid lumps, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the melted cream cheese. Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple for a unique twist. This candy can be a delightful treat alongside Chocolate Cracker Candy.
Serving Suggestions
These butter pecan candies are perfect as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. Serve them on a platter for special occasions or packaging them as gifts. They complement the flavors in desserts like Applesauce Rhubarb Muffins or can be enjoyed as a snack. Pair with a glass of milk for a delightful indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store the butter pecan candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate for up to three weeks. To maintain their texture, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter their consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Pecan Candy contains roughly 761 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% 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
Can I make these candies ahead of time?
Yes, these candies can be made a few days in advance. Let them dry completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just ensure that it's a spreadable consistency to mix well with the powdered sugar and maintain the texture of the candy.
How can I make these candies more festive?
To make these candies more festive, consider drizzling melted chocolate over them or rolling them in crushed nuts or sprinkles before they set. These additions can make them visually appealing and perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
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).