Butter Pecan Fudge

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Butter Pecan Fudge is a rich, velvety treat that combines the creamy decadence of buttery fudge with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. This irresistible dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and warmth—making it a standout choice for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply indulging in a moment of pure delight.

I first made Butter Pecan Fudge for a holiday party, and it quickly became a favorite among friends and family. The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture is achieved by cooking a creamy base of butter, sugar, and sweet cream, then stirring in toasted pecans for that satisfying crunch. The toasted nuts add a rustic, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.

What I love about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the richness by using dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor or add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. Drizzle the fudge with melted chocolate or dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Whether served in neat squares on a platter, packaged in gift boxes, or enjoyed alongside coffee or hot cocoa, Butter Pecan Fudge is a decadent treat that brings a touch of holiday luxury to any occasion.

Perfect for:

  • Holiday celebrations
  • Family gatherings
  • Gift-giving
  • Sweet cravings
  • Pecan lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Butter Pecan Fudge will become your new favorite treat:

  • Rich and Creamy Flavor: The buttery base offers a decadent experience with every bite.
  • Perfect Balance of Texture: The combination of creamy fudge and crunchy pecans creates a delightful contrast.
  • Easy-to-Make Fudge: Simple steps make this an accessible treat for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Festive and Gift-Worthy: An excellent choice for holiday gifting and party treats.
  • Toasted Pecans: Enhance the flavor with the warm, earthy taste of toasted pecans.
  • Make-Ahead Treat: Prepare it a day in advance to save time during events and gatherings.
  • Versatile Customization: Add caramel, chocolate, or extra nuts to create your twist on the classic.
  • Smooth and Creamy Consistency: A melt-in-your-mouth texture that delivers pure indulgence.
  • Classic Appeal: Butter pecan is a timeless flavor combination that appeals to everyone.
  • No-Fuss Recipe: Requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 2.5 hours
  • Servings: 24 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Butter Pecan Fudge:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Ingredient Highlights

  • Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich and creamy base for the fudge.
  • Toasted Pecans: Add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fudge Base:

  1. Line Your Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Place over medium heat and stir until the butter is melted.
  3. Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until it reaches the soft ball stage (around 235°F or 112°C).
  4. Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and add the chopped toasted pecans.

Pour and Chill:

  1. Pour into the Pan: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  2. Cool at Room Temperature: Let it cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  3. Chill in the Fridge: Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2.5 hours until the fudge is firm.

Cut and Serve

  1. Slice the Fudge: Use a sharp knife to cut the chilled fudge into squares. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean edges.
  2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve cold and enjoy the buttery goodness with friends and family.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Butter Pecan Fudge:

  • Holiday Dessert Tray: Add it to your Christmas or Thanksgiving dessert spread.
  • Gift Baskets: Wrap squares in decorative paper and include them in gift baskets.
  • Tea-Time Treat: Serve it alongside your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
  • As a Party Treat: Offer it at birthday parties or family gatherings as a sweet treat.
  • With Ice Cream: Serve on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • In a Dessert Platter: Pair it with other fudge varieties for a decadent platter.
  • Crushed Over Oatmeal: Sprinkle pieces of fudge over oatmeal for a unique twist.
  • Layered Desserts: Use it in layered desserts like trifles or parfaits.
  • As a Surprise Addition: Hide pieces in cookies or brownies for unexpected delight.
  • Pecan Lovers’ Delight: Serve with additional toasted pecans as a topping.

Additional Tips

  • Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Sauté them in a dry pan over medium heat or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract to elevate the taste of your fudge.
  • Check the Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control, especially when boiling sugar mixtures. Aim for a soft-ball stage of about 234-240°F (112-115°C).
  • Chop Pecans Evenly: Chop the pecans into small, even pieces to distribute them more uniformly throughout the fudge.
  • Grease Your Pan Well: Line your pan with parchment paper and grease the edges to make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
  • Add Salt for Balance: A small pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness of the fudge and bring out the buttery flavors.
  • Be Patient While Cooling: Let the fudge cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator, as a sudden temperature change may affect its texture.
  • Use Sweeteners Wisely: You can combine white and brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like flavor.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Add a touch of cinnamon or almond extract to give your fudge a unique twist.
  • Store Properly: Wrap your fudge tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Butter Pecan Fudge: Add ½ cup of melted dark chocolate to the mix for a rich twist.
  • Maple Butter Pecan Fudge: Substitute vanilla with maple extract for a unique flavor profile.
  • Sea Salt Butter Pecan Fudge: Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
  • Caramel Drizzle Fudge: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chilled fudge for extra sweetness.
  • White Chocolate Butter Pecan Fudge: Use white chocolate chips instead of sugar for a creamy variation.

Special Equipment

  • Candy Thermometer: Ensures the fudge reaches the correct temperature for perfect consistency.
  • Saucepan: For melting butter and combining ingredients.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal from the baking pan.
  • Sharp Knife: For clean and precise cutting.
  • Mixing Spoon: Essential for stirring the ingredients consistently.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use salted butter?
    Yes, it adds a subtle salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the fudge.
  2. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  3. Can I freeze the fudge?
    Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
  4. Can I add other nuts instead of pecans?
    Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work well.
  5. How do I prevent the fudge from becoming grainy?
    Boil the sugar, butter, and cream mixture to the correct temperature and stir constantly.
  6. Can I make this fudge without a candy thermometer?
    Yes, test the soft ball stage by dropping a small amount of mixture into cold water.
  7. Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
    Yes, it’s perfect for holiday baskets and party treats.
  8. How long does the fudge need to chill?
    At least 2.5 hours, but overnight chilling is best for a firm texture.
  9. Can I add chocolate chips to the fudge?
    Yes, mix in white, dark, or milk chocolate chips for added richness.
  10. What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?
    Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Fudge is a rich and creamy treat that combines the buttery sweetness of smooth fudge with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and nutty goodness. It’s a decadent treat that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make for any occasion.

Perfect for holiday gifting, dessert tables, or just a special treat for yourself, this fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can enhance it with a sprinkle of sea salt, a touch of cinnamon, or a swirl of caramel for an extra decadent twist.

I’d love to see your Butter Pecan Fudge creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me so I can celebrate your delicious masterpiece. Don’t forget to comment and let me know how you customized your fudge—maybe with extra nuts, a chocolate drizzle, or a unique flavor twist!

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