Pecan Candy
A rich and buttery pecan candy with a creamy cream cheese base, infused with vanilla and coated with toasted pecans. Perfect for sweet snacking or holiday gifting, this treat combines crunchy nuts with smooth, sweet filling for a delightful bite that appeals to nut lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped pecans and oleo (butter).
- Place in oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, stirring once during baking.
- Melt cream cheese in a double boiler.
- Mix in one box of powdered sugar.
- Add toasted pecans and vanilla extract.
- Pour into a buttered dish and let it set until firm.
- Cut into squares when the mixture is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you're out of powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar until fine as a substitute. Make sure to stir the pecans halfway through baking to ensure even toasting. You can also try adding a pinch of sea salt for contrast. If you're a fan of American recipes, this is a delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan candies are lovely on their own but can be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve them on a dessert platter alongside Margaret'S Pound Cake or other confections. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes, perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the candy for a couple of hours. When ready to enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Candy contains roughly 360 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 18g fat.
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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts based on your preference. Just be sure to toast them similarly to enhance their flavor. Each nut will give the candy a distinct taste, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Is it necessary to melt the cream cheese in a double boiler?
While melting cream cheese in a double boiler helps prevent scorching, you can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently. Just ensure it melts smoothly for easy mixing with the powdered sugar.
How long does it take for the candy to set?
Allow the candy to set for at least 2 hours at room temperature before cutting into squares. If you're in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process, which usually takes about 1 hour.
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).