Butter Fudge with Candied Pecans

The perfect sweet treat for fall is here! This decadent Butter Fudge with Candied Pecans is rich, easy to make, and ideal for autumn.

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A Hometown Favorite

Have you noticed how many tourist spots sell fudge, especially in charming towns like Mackinac Island, which boasts 13 bustling fudge shops? Fudge's popularity stems from its novelty and nostalgic appeal, dating back to the late 1800s. Its creamy texture, created by small sugar crystals, makes it irresistible. This fall, don't miss out on homemade Butter Fudge with Candied Pecans—a treat that captures the essence of those quaint towns and leaves you wanting more!

No Sweeter Treat Than Fudge - Literally!

Is there anything more delectable than fudge? This dense dessert combines butter, sugar, and milk—though be warned, it contains far more sugar than you might expect! While classic chocolate fudge is the most popular, other varieties include caramel, peppermint, vanilla, and butter fudge. Butter fudge, made without chocolate, features chopped pecans for added texture. I love using Candied Pecans from Santé Nuts to enhance the flavor and add a delightful crunch!

Butter, Milk and Sugar - Oh My!

The base ingredients of fudge are simple and straightforward, but there's a science to transforming them into an irresistible treat. Start with one cup of cubed unsalted butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium-high heat, as cubing helps it melt evenly. Stir occasionally as it melts.

Once the butter is melted, stir in heavy whipping cream instead of evaporated milk. While evaporated milk is often used for its golden color, it's much sweeter and could make the fudge too rich. Heavy whipping cream yields a creamier fudge.

Next, combine almost two cups of white cane sugar with a third cup of brown sugar in a medium-sized bowl. This ratio is important because brown sugar has a stronger flavor that can overpower the mixture. Pour the combined sugar into the butter and milk mixture, then add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

The Importance of Boiling

This next step is crucial for the firmness and overall outcome of the fudge. Once the butter, milk, and sugars are combined, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for about five minutes to dissolve the sugar crystals and evaporate water from the cream.

Avoid stirring the mixture while boiling, as this encourages sugar crystal formation that can affect texture. Instead, use a thermometer for accuracy; the mixture should reach 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) during boiling, and around 112-114 degrees Celsius at the end.

Cooling the Fudge

While boiling correctly is essential, allowing the fudge to cool properly is the second most crucial step. It must cool to room temperature slowly to prevent sugar crystallization, which can make the fudge grainy. Though it takes time for the fudge to cool and set, rushing this process can compromise texture.

Adding the Final Ingredients

Once the fudge has cooled to room temperature, you can proceed with the final steps! Start by adding a little more than two teaspoons of vanilla extract and stir to combine. Next, it’s time to add the powdered sugar, which thickens the fudge. Ensure the powdered sugar is thoroughly sifted to avoid lumps that can make the texture grainy. Add only half a cup to one cup at a time, whisking in between to allow gradual thickening for the best results.

Finally, chop a little more than a cup of Candied Pecans from Santé Nuts and fold them into the mixture with a spatula. Pour the batter into a greased, parchment-lined square tin, smoothing the top with the spatula. Chill in the refrigerator for at least three hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the fudge to set properly.

There You Have It!

At last, you have beautiful butter fudge with candied pecans! Patience truly pays off with this recipe. Each bite is rich in flavor, with the candied pecans adding a subtle, sweet crunch to the creamy fudge. It’s the perfect fall treat!

Why Santé Nuts?

I always choose Santé Nuts for flavorful walnuts, almonds, and pecans. For nearly three years, I’ve loved this family-owned company, which has been crafting snacks since 2004. Each variety is individually roasted and hand-seasoned for perfect crunch and flavor.

You’ll find Santé Nuts in many of my recipes, from savory dishes like Walnut & Pea Pesto Pasta Salad to sweet treats like Almond Butter and Chocolate Cups to my Gluten-Free Pear and Walnut Tart. They keep adding new flavors that pair beautifully with various dishes.

If you haven't tried them yet, use the code "BOTTOMLESSPIT" for 15% off your order. Here are some recipe ideas to inspire you:

• Garlic Almonds: Perfect for snacking or adding crunch to Lemony Asparagus Risotto.
• Candied Pecans: Great in desserts like Gluten-Free Pecan Crusted Mini Key Lime Pies or salads like Radicchio Salad with Pecans.

Check out my Instagram for more gluten-free recipes featuring Santé Nuts!