Chocolate-Nut Log Candy
Indulge in rich, chocolatey nut logs with a smooth texture and crunchy pecan coating, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing with friends during holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, salt, and cocoa in a heavy saucepan; mix well.
- Gradually stir in milk and corn syrup.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft ball stage (236°F).
- Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla.
- Pour onto a buttered 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan; let cool for 10 minutes.
- With buttered hands, knead the candy occasionally for 10 to 15 minutes or until cool enough to hold its form.
- Shape into a 12 x 1 1/4-inch rope; roll in chopped pecans.
- Wrap in buttered plastic wrap.
- Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour or until completely cooled.
- Cut into 1/2-inch slices.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth texture, make sure to continuously stir the mixture while cooking to prevent it from sticking. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of sea salt or a dash of espresso powder. If the candy becomes too hard, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it.
Serving Suggestions
These candy logs make a delightful treat on their own or can be paired with a hot beverage like coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with Sylvia'S Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cheesecake for a decadent dessert platter. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit or as a topping for ice cream for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Chocolate-Nut Log Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, you may want to layer the slices with parchment paper. Avoid refrigerating as it can alter the texture, making it too hard. If you want to enjoy it warm, microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate-Nut Log Candy contains roughly 309 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 886mg per serving (39% 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 substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just make sure to finely chop them to ensure they adhere well to the candy log and provide a nice crunch.
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage is reached when the candy mixture reaches a temperature of 236°F. At this stage, a small amount of the mixture can be dropped into cold water and will form a soft, pliable ball. This is crucial for the texture of your candy.
How can I tell if the candy is ready to knead?
The candy is ready to knead when it has cooled enough to handle, typically after about 10-15 minutes. It should still be warm but not hot, allowing you to shape it easily without burning your hands.
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).