Holiday Pecan Logs
Holiday Pecan Logs are rich, sweet treats featuring a buttery, nutty flavor with a crunchy pecan coating. Perfect for festive gatherings or gift-giving, these logs combine caramel, vanilla, and pecans in a irresistible bite-sized dessert ideal for those who enjoy indulgent confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter an 8-inch square pan with 2 teaspoons of butter and set aside.
- Combine powdered sugar and dry milk powder; set aside.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine 1/2 cup butter, sugar, and corn syrup; cook and stir until it comes to a boil and sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in the powdered sugar and dry milk mixture, about 1/3 at a time, until blended.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Continue stirring until mixture thickens and mounds slightly when dropped from a spoon.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared pan and cool.
- Cut the cooled candy into four strips, then cut each strip in half.
- Shape each piece into a log shape.
- Wrap each log in waxed paper and twist the ends.
- Refrigerate or freeze until firm.
- In a heavy saucepan or microwave, melt caramels with milk, stirring often.
- Roll each log in the caramel mixture, then in chopped pecans.
- Wrap in waxed paper and store at room temperature in airtight containers.
- Slice into pieces with a serrated knife before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding sugar and corn syrup. If you don't have dry milk powder, you can use powdered non-dairy creamer as a substitute. Also, consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Be patient while stirring, as the mixture may take some time to thicken properly. Using a serrated knife will help in cutting the logs more easily.
Serving Suggestions
These holiday pecan logs make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside a scoop of Orange-Pineapple Sherbet for a refreshing contrast. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience. For festive occasions, consider presenting them on a dessert platter with other sweets like Black Forest Cheesecake to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pecan logs in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness. If you prefer, these logs can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature before serving, allowing them to regain their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Pecan Logs contains roughly 475 calories, with 3g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% 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 different nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just be sure to chop them finely so they adhere well to the caramel coating. Each nut variety will bring its own unique flavor and crunch to the logs, so feel free to experiment!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make these pecan logs dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. For the milk powder, you can use a non-dairy powdered creamer. Additionally, ensure the caramels are dairy-free or opt for a vegan caramel recipe to fully eliminate dairy from the dish.
What type of caramel should I use?
You can use store-bought caramels for convenience, but homemade caramel can elevate the flavor. If using store-bought, look for high-quality brands that melt smoothly. If making your own, ensure it reaches the right consistency to coat the logs evenly without being too runny.
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).