Buttermilk Nut Candy
A rich, nutty candy with a creamy buttermilk base and crunchy chopped nuts, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, homemade confections with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine and cook sugar, salt, baking soda, and buttermilk until a soft ball forms in cold water.
- Remove from heat and add butter, vanilla, and nuts.
- Beat until mixture is thick and creamy.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper.
- Let stand until cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your buttermilk nut candy turns out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to check for the soft ball stage, which is around 234°F (112°C). If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a different flavor, consider using pecans or walnuts in place of the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet treats can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make great additions to dessert platters or gift baskets. Consider pairing them with Mild Ginger Cookies for a flavorful variety, or use them as a topping for ice cream for an extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover buttermilk nut candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating, as it can cause the candy to become sticky. If you need to soften the candy for easier consumption, let it sit at room temperature for a short while before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Nut Candy contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap out the nuts for your favorites. Almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts all work well. Just ensure they are coarsely chopped for the best texture in the candy.
What should I do if my candy doesn't set?
If the candy doesn't set, it may not have reached the right temperature during cooking. You can try reheating the mixture and cooking it a bit longer until it reaches the soft ball stage, then drop it again onto wax paper.
Is there a way to make this candy more flavorful?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. Additionally, using flavored extracts like almond or maple can give your candy a unique twist.
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).