Pecan Fudge
Rich and creamy pecan fudge combines bittersweet chocolate with crunchy pecans, ideal for sweet cravings, gatherings, or gift-giving, offering a delightful texture and flavor balance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the sugar, cream, cream of tartar, grated bitter chocolate, butter, and salt to the soft ball stage (242°F).
- Set the mixture aside until cold, then beat until creamy.
- Add the whole pecan meats to the mixture and pour into a pan.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer for accuracy, ensuring you reach 242°F. If you don't have cream of tartar, lemon juice can be a substitute to help stabilize the mixture. For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of bitter chocolate. Stir continuously while boiling to prevent scorching.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan fudge is delightful on its own but can also be served alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, arrange it on a platter with holiday cookies or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with Pear Or Pineapple Cream Cheese Spread for an interesting dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you prefer, refrigerate it to extend freshness. To reheat, cut into squares and microwave for a few seconds until just warm, but avoid overheating to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Fudge contains roughly 568 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1763mg per serving (77% 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are roasted for enhanced flavor. Each nut brings a different texture and taste to the fudge, making it a versatile treat.
What if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge remains too soft, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. You can re-cook it, bringing it back to the soft ball stage and then cooling it again to set. Alternatively, you can use it as a topping for ice cream.
How can I make this fudge more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider increasing the amount of grated chocolate to 3 or 4 tablespoons. You can also add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top before it sets for a decadent finish.
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).