If you’re a fan of the sweet, buttery flavor of pecans, then this Butter Pecan Fudge is the perfect treat for you! This creamy and decadent fudge is filled with toasted pecans, giving it a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. It’s a great dessert for the holidays, a gift for friends and family, or a sweet snack when you’re craving something special. Let’s make a batch of this irresistible fudge that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (11 oz) white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped pecans and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pecans are fragrant and lightly toasted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Fudge Base
- In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, 3/4 cup butter, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Continue boiling for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add Marshmallow Creme and White Chocolate Chips
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the marshmallow creme, white chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is melted and smooth.
- Add Toasted Pecans
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
- Pour and Set
- Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until set. For quicker setting, refrigerate the fudge for about an hour.
- Cut and Serve
- Once the fudge is completely set, cut it into small squares and serve. Enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural flavor and adds extra depth to the fudge, so don’t skip this step.
- Marshmallow Creme: The marshmallow creme helps give the fudge a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Butter Pecan Fudge: Substitute half of the white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips for a richer, chocolatey version of this fudge.
- Bourbon Pecan Fudge: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the fudge mixture for a sophisticated twist.
- Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top of the fudge before it sets to add a salty contrast to the sweet fudge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk? A: No, sweetened condensed milk is much sweeter and thicker than evaporated milk and will change the consistency and sweetness of the fudge.
Q: Can I freeze butter pecan fudge? A: Yes! You can freeze the fudge in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: How do I prevent my fudge from being grainy? A: Be sure to stir constantly while cooking the sugar and butter mixture, and cook it at a consistent medium heat. Avoid overcooking, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize and result in a grainy texture.
This Butter Pecan Fudge is a simple yet delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy fudge and toasted pecans creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making it as a gift or for a special dessert, this fudge is sure to delight everyone who tries it. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, buttery flavors in every bite!
