Thank you for being here again—you have no idea how much it means. Every time you come back to try another sweet treat, it feels like we’re sharing a cozy little moment together in the kitchen. And today’s recipe? Oh, this one feels like pure holiday magic. Butter Pecan Fudge—a melt-in-your-mouth, brown-sugar–buttery dream studded with toasted pecans. I promised you decadent, and here’s proof!
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Overview of Recipe Content
This fudge is creamy, buttery, and lightly spiced with cinnamon—like butter pecan ice cream in fudge form. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet impressive enough for holiday platters, edible gifts, or a “just because” kitchen indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No candy thermometer anxiety—only one temperature to monitor
- Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Toasted pecans give it that irresistible crunch
- Perfect for gifting (wrap in wax paper or slice into little cubes!)
- Tastes like a cozy brown sugar pecan hug
What Does Butter Pecan Fudge Taste Like?
Think creamy buttery caramel meets pecan praline. The cinnamon adds warmth, the brown sugar adds depth, and the toasted pecans give the perfect nutty finish. Rich, nostalgic, and anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick stovetop prep
- Easy to slice and store
- Beginner-friendly
- No complicated equipment
- Perfect make-ahead treat
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- 1 ⅓ cups toasted pecans, chopped
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet or flat surface
- Rubber spatula
Additions & Substitutions
Additions
- A pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
- A swirl of maple syrup (½ tsp) for added depth
- White chocolate chips folded in at the end
- Extra pecans pressed onto the outside before chilling
Substitutions
- Use dark brown sugar for deeper caramel notes
- Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice
- Replace vanilla with bourbon or rum extract for holiday flair
- Use walnuts instead of pecans if preferred
How to Make Butter Pecan Fudge
Step 1 — Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
Heat over medium, stirring continuously.
Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches 235°F.
Step 2 — Add Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla gently—but do not mix further.
Step 3 — Let It Cool
Allow the mixture to cool to about 105°F, about 30 minutes.
Step 4 — Beat the Mixture
Beat vigorously for 1–2 minutes until it thickens.
Add powdered sugar and pecans, stirring until the mixture loses its shiny appearance.
Step 5 — Shape the Fudge
Transfer to parchment paper, spooning into a log shape.
Roll tightly to form an even cylinder.
Step 6 — Chill
Refrigerate 1–2 hours until firm.
Step 7 — Slice & Serve
Cut into beautiful buttery rounds and enjoy chilled.
What to Serve With Butter Pecan Fudge
- A mug of hot coffee or chai
- Vanilla ice cream (trust me: incredible combo!)
- A festive cookie platter
- Hot buttered rum or spiced cider
Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Toast your pecans—they add unmatched flavor.
- Don’t stir after adding vanilla until the mix cools; this helps avoid graininess.
- Make sure the mixture truly reaches 235°F to set properly.
- Beat only until the mixture loses shine—overmixing makes it crumbly.
- For cleaner slices, chill the fudge overnight.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before slicing.
- Room temperature: Safe for 3–4 days in a cool area.
General Information
- Servings: 24
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without a thermometer?
You can, but for best results, use one to ensure you hit 235°F.
Why did my fudge turn grainy?
It likely cooled too quickly or was stirred too early. Follow the steps carefully for smooth fudge.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
For best flavor and texture, stick to real butter.
Can I shape it in a pan instead of a log?
Absolutely! Press it into an 8×8 pan lined with parchment and slice into squares.
Conclusion
This Butter Pecan Fudge is everything homemade candy should be—sweet, creamy, nostalgic, and unbelievably easy. Whether you’re gifting it or keeping it all for yourself (no judgment here!), you’ll fall in love with every velvety bite.
If you adore cozy pecan treats, try next:
- Pecan Pie Bars
- Butter Pecan Cookies
- Brown Sugar Pecan Shortbread
Join the Fun!
If you make this fudge, please leave a review—and share your sweet creations on Pinterest! I’m kicking myself for not photographing this dreamy golden log the last time I made it, so I’d love to see your version.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per piece)
- Calories: ~140
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 16g
- Protein: 1g
Enjoy every creamy, nutty, buttery bite! 🍬✨
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