For those with a sweet tooth, few treats are as irresistible as a perfectly made fudge. Growing up in Michigan, I developed a deep appreciation for this classic confection, often enjoying it from charming shops “Up North” or at festive gatherings. While chocolate and peanut butter have always been favorites, this Butter Pecan Fudge has taken my affection for fudge to a new level.

This Butter Pecan Fudge is a rich and buttery treat that features toasted pecans in every delectable bite. Unlike recipes that rely on microwaving chocolate chips, this version follows a traditional approach that yields a truly exceptional fudge. The process begins by combining butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, and a hint of cinnamon in a saucepan. You’ll bring the mixture to a boil until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage), then remove it from the heat and let it cool to around 105°F. After vigorously beating the mixture until it thickens, you’ll incorporate powdered sugar and toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

For a nostalgic touch, I chose to shape the fudge into a log, reminiscent of classic recipes. However, if you prefer bite-sized pieces, an 8×8-inch baking dish will work perfectly. This Butter Pecan Fudge is not just a treat for the holidays; it’s a delightful indulgence that can brighten any day.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 ⅓ cup toasted pecans, chopped

Preparation:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a boil until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage).
2. Remove the pan from heat and add the vanilla extract. Do not stir the mixture.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to about 105°F, which should take around 30 minutes.
4. Once cooled, vigorously stir the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and chopped pecans, continuing to stir until the fudge loses its shine.
5. Spoon the fudge onto a sheet of parchment paper and roll it into a log shape.
6. Refrigerate the fudge for 1-2 hours, or until firm.
7. Slice and serve chilled.

Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the fudge before refrigerating. This will enhance the rich, buttery taste and give a sophisticated touch to your homemade treat.

Conclusion: Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just in need of a sweet pick-me-up, this Butter Pecan Fudge is sure to impress. Its creamy texture, combined with the crunch of toasted pecans, makes it a standout treat. Give it a try, and you may just find a new favorite recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and a lot of satisfaction to your taste buds. Enjoy every bite!