Butter Pecan Fudge
Creamy and buttery, this fudge features the rich flavors of brown sugar, butterscotch, and toasted pecans, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Its smooth texture and sweet, nutty taste appeal to those with a sweet tooth and are perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a special homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the brown sugar and evaporated milk in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butterscotch chips, toasted chopped pecans, miniature marshmallows, and vanilla until the marshmallows melt.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 9 x 9-inch pan and let it cool.
- Cut into squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved before boiling. If butterscotch chips aren't available, you can substitute with chocolate chips for a different flavor. Make sure to toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor. Stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning, and consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and serve as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Annie Floye'S Strawberry Cake for a delightful dessert platter. You can also serve it alongside nuts or fresh fruit for a balanced snack. Consider drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor. You can also freeze the fudge for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Pecan Fudge contains roughly 376 calories, with 3g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% 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 use regular marshmallows instead of miniature marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you'll need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly. This will help achieve the same creamy texture in the fudge. Just be careful to stir them in well so they incorporate fully into the mixture.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. Both will provide a nice crunch and complement the flavors of the fudge. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or simply omitting the nuts altogether for a delicious, smooth fudge.
How do I know when the fudge is properly cooked?
The fudge should be cooked until it reaches a soft-ball stage, which is around 234°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer. If you don't have one, a good test is to drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it's ready to remove from heat. Stirring continuously will help achieve the right consistency.
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).