Date And Pecan Candy
Rich and chewy date and pecan candy with sweet cherries, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings or gifting during holidays. A delightful treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, mix the sugar and milk together.
- Bring to a boil. Add candied cherries and chopped dates.
- Continue to cook slowly until a firm ball is formed when a small amount of the candy is dropped into cold water.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter.
- Set the pan in a larger pan of cold water until mixture is almost cold. Beat until creamy and thick.
- Add chopped pecans.
- Spoon the thick mixture onto a clean, slightly damp cloth.
- Form into a long roll, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter.
- With the mixture still wrapped in the cloth, refrigerate until firm enough to slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your saucepan is heavy-bottomed to prevent burning the sugar and milk mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts can be a great substitute. You can also use dried apricots or raisins instead of cherries for a different flavor profile. Be patient while cooking; it may take some time for the mixture to reach the right consistency. Use a candy thermometer for precision if available.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the candy into bite-sized pieces and serve as a delightful treat with coffee or tea. They can also be a sweet addition to a dessert platter alongside other treats. Consider pairing with Cherry Cake Cobbler for a delicious dessert spread. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, slice off portions and gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the candy to become too soft. If you prefer, you can also enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date And Pecan Candy contains roughly 584 calories, with 5g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh cherries instead of candied ones?
Using fresh cherries is not recommended, as they contain too much moisture and will alter the consistency of the candy. Stick to candied cherries for the best results, as they help achieve the desired sweetness and texture.
How do I know when the candy is ready?
The candy is ready when it forms a firm ball in cold water, which indicates that the sugar has reached the right temperature. If you have a candy thermometer, aim for around 240°F (115°C) for the perfect texture.
Can I freeze Date And Pecan Candy?
Yes, you can freeze the candy! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).