Buttermilk Pecan Candy
Buttermilk Pecan Candy offers a rich, creamy treat with toasted pecans and a caramel-like flavor, perfect for sweet tooths and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except nuts and flavorings in a large heavy kettle.
- Stir only until sugar is dissolved.
- Turn heat to low and continue cooking until a soft ball forms in cold water or the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
- Allow the candy to gradually brown while cooking.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in nuts, butter flavoring, and vanilla flavoring.
- Beat until slightly thickened and pour into an 8-inch greased square pan.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect consistency, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, as cooking times can vary. If you don't have buttermilk, substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or swapping pecans for walnuts to customize your candy. Remember to beat the mixture until it thickens to ensure a great texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Buttermilk Pecan Candy into bite-sized squares for easy serving. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon treat. You can also serve it alongside Cousin Dora Zimmerman's Icebox Rolls for a sweet and savory combination. Consider wrapping pieces in decorative foil for a charming gift.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Buttermilk Pecan Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to refrigerate it to prevent sticking. To enjoy it again, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Pecan Candy contains roughly 734 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% 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 should I do if my candy doesn't reach the soft ball stage?
If your candy isn't reaching the soft ball stage, it may be necessary to increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure that the heat is set to low, as high heat can cause the sugar to cook too quickly. If using a thermometer, check that it is calibrated correctly for accurate readings.
Can I make this candy ahead of time for a special occasion?
Absolutely! Buttermilk Pecan Candy can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure it's stored properly in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This makes it a great option for parties or holiday gatherings where you can impress guests with your homemade treat.
How can I modify this recipe to be nut-free?
To make this recipe nut-free, simply omit the pecans. You can replace them with crispy rice cereal for added texture or use seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavor of the candy without the nuts.
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).