Microwave Aunt Bills
A rich, nutty, and chewy caramel fudge with crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for sharing at gatherings or as a gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-5 quart dish, combine sugar, baking soda, butter, and buttermilk.
- Cover with plastic wrap; punch small holes in the plastic.
- Microwave on 70% power for 15 minutes.
- Stir and continue cooking for 13-15 minutes, until soft-ball stage is reached.
- Add vanilla and beat with a mixer until soft peaks form.
- Stir in chopped pecans and pour into a buttered 12 x 7 inch dish.
- Cool and cut into small pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of salted. You can substitute half of the pecans with walnuts for a different flavor profile. If you don't have buttermilk, make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the mixture in the microwave to avoid a grainy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These delicious treats are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. For a fun twist, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Mother'S I-45 Cream Cheese Cake. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for longer shelf life. To reheat, place pieces in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat, which can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Aunt Bills contains roughly 1700 calories, with 9g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 167g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% 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 make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can cook the mixture on the stovetop. Combine the ingredients in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the soft-ball stage. This method may take longer but allows for more control over the cooking process.
What is the soft-ball stage?
The soft-ball stage is a candy-making term that refers to a temperature of about 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C). You can check this by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready for the next step.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other nuts like almonds or cashews. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries also work well, adding a nice texture and sweetness. Just ensure that any additions are balanced with the sweetness of the dish.
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).