Caramel Pecan Fudge
This classic Caramel Pecan Fudge is a rich, creamy, and delightfully nutty treat combining buttery caramel with crunchy toasted pecans. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, it’s easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and makes a wonderful dessert for gifting, sharing, or enjoying yourself.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop cooking and chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Fudge Base
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Prepare Your Pan: Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or greasing it well so the fudge can be removed easily once set.
- Melt Butter and Sugars: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture bubbles and reaches the soft-ball stage (about 238°F or 114°C on a candy thermometer).
- Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Fold in Pecans: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the chopped toasted pecans evenly to ensure every bite has a perfect nutty crunch.
- Pour and Chill: Pour the fudge batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm and set.
- Cut and Serve: Once chilled, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the perfect consistency for creamy fudge.
- Toast pecans first to enhance their flavor and crunch significantly.
- Don’t skip cooling time—it ensures clean cuts and firm texture.
- Stir continuously during cooking to keep the mixture smooth and prevent burning.
- Use room temperature ingredients to help the mixture combine evenly and prevent graininess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 1 inch)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: caramel fudge, pecan fudge, nutty fudge, creamy fudge, holiday fudge, easy fudge recipe, caramel pecan dessert