Creamy Butter Pecan Fudge

Fudge is a classic confection that has graced many dessert tables for generations, loved for its silky smooth texture and rich flavor. Among the myriad variations of this delightful treat, Butter Pecan Fudge stands out as a truly indulgent version, offering the perfect balance between sweet and nutty. Imagine the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar melting into rich, creamy butter and cream, all punctuated with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. This Butter Pecan Fudge is an easy-to-make, yet luxurious dessert that will satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your friends and family.

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, preparing a special treat for a party, or simply want to make something homemade for yourself, this fudge recipe is sure to become a staple. The process is straightforward, but the results are nothing short of amazing. The best part? It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying all on your own. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delectable batch of Butter Pecan Fudge that will be remembered long after the last piece is gone.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter 🧈: The foundation of any good fudge is butter. It provides the smooth, creamy texture that makes fudge melt in your mouth. Make sure you use unsalted butter for the best flavor control.
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 🥛: Heavy cream is essential for adding richness and depth to the fudge. It gives the fudge its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and helps bind the sugar and butter together.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar 🍯: Brown sugar lends a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the fudge, which pairs perfectly with the toasted pecans.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar 🍚: Granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and structure to help set the fudge when it cools.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂: A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness of the fudge, enhancing the overall flavor and giving it a more complex taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰: Cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the fudge. It complements the brown sugar and pecans, adding a comforting, spiced note to the treat.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿: Vanilla extract adds depth and a subtle aromatic sweetness to the fudge, elevating the overall flavor.
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar 🍥: Powdered sugar is key to achieving that smooth, velvety texture that defines good fudge. It dissolves easily into the warm mixture and helps it set without any graininess.
• 1 1/3 cups toasted pecans, chopped 🥜: Toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the smooth and creamy fudge base. Toasting the nuts enhances their natural flavor and adds extra depth to the fudge.

Preparation:

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Begin by placing the 1/2 cup of butter into a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from browning. The butter will begin to melt slowly, turning from solid to liquid. This step is the foundation for your fudge, so make sure not to let the butter burn. It should melt into a smooth, glossy liquid that will provide the base for the creamy texture of the fudge.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the butter has completely melted, add the heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to ensure the sugars do not burn at the bottom of the pan. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure that the mixture has reached a rolling boil. A candy thermometer is incredibly helpful here, as it will show you when the mixture has reached the correct temperature. The goal is to cook the mixture until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage), which ensures the right consistency for the fudge.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Once the mixture has reached the appropriate temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a layer of aromatic sweetness to the fudge. Allow the mixture to cool for about 30 minutes, or until the temperature has dropped to around 105°F. This is an important step because it allows the mixture to cool enough so that it will firm up when combined with the powdered sugar. Cooling the mixture too quickly or too slowly could affect the final texture of the fudge.

Step 4: Mix in Powdered Sugar

After the mixture has cooled to 105°F, begin stirring in the powdered sugar. It’s best to sift the powdered sugar before adding it to ensure that no lumps form. Stir vigorously to ensure that the sugar is fully incorporated into the mixture. This is when the fudge starts to come together, thickening as the powdered sugar dissolves. The texture should become smooth and creamy, but firm enough to hold its shape when spooned onto parchment paper. Be patient during this process and keep stirring until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.

Step 5: Add Toasted Pecans

Once the fudge has thickened, it’s time to fold in the toasted pecans. Be sure that the pecans are chopped into small, bite-sized pieces so that they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their natural flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch. Stir the nuts into the fudge mixture, making sure they are well incorporated, giving each piece of fudge that satisfying crunch.

Shape and Refrigerate:

Spoon the fudge mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or a lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the fudge into a log or rectangle, depending on your desired shape. Press the fudge down gently to smooth it out and ensure it sets evenly. Place the fudge in the refrigerator to chill for about 1-2 hours until it has fully set. The refrigeration time allows the fudge to firm up and hold its shape when sliced.

Slice and Serve:

Once the fudge has chilled and set, it’s time to slice it into bite-sized pieces. You can slice it into squares or small logs, depending on how you plan to serve it. The fudge will be firm but creamy and melt-in-your-mouth with each bite. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the combination of creamy sweetness and crunchy toasted pecans.

Variation:

• Chocolate Swirl Butter Pecan Fudge: For a delicious twist, melt some semi-sweet or dark chocolate and gently swirl it into the fudge mixture before it sets. This will create a beautiful marbled effect and a rich, chocolatey flavor to balance the sweetness of the fudge.
• Maple Butter Pecan Fudge: Substitute the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a more pronounced maple flavor. This variation adds a seasonal touch, perfect for autumn and holiday gatherings.

Cooking Note:

• Proper Temperature: The success of this recipe hinges on reaching the correct temperatures during cooking. The soft ball stage (235°F) is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready for the next step.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be sure not to overcook the mixture, as it could lead to a grainy or overly firm fudge. The key is cooking it just long enough to reach the correct temperature for a soft, creamy texture.
• Cooling Time: Allow the mixture to cool properly before adding the powdered sugar. If you skip this step, the fudge may turn out too runny or fail to set properly.

Serving Suggestions:

This Butter Pecan Fudge makes a fantastic addition to a wide range of occasions:

• Holiday Gatherings: This fudge is an excellent addition to your holiday dessert table. Pair it with other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or pecan pie for a well-rounded selection.
• Gift Giving: Package the fudge in beautiful gift boxes or mason jars. Add a ribbon for a personal touch and give it as a gift for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion.
• Sweet Snack: Keep a batch in the fridge for a quick, indulgent treat whenever a craving strikes. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate snack.

Tips:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them blend together more smoothly and prevent the mixture from curdling.
• Chop the Pecans: Finely chop the pecans to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge. Large pieces may disrupt the texture and make the fudge harder to slice.
• Cool Properly: Let the fudge cool to the right temperature before adding the powdered sugar. If the mixture is too hot, the sugar may not dissolve properly, resulting in a grainy texture.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 24 servings):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different nut? Yes! Feel free to experiment with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture but will still work wonderfully in this fudge.

2. How long will the fudge last? When stored in an airtight container, the fudge will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

3. Can I make this fudge without a candy thermometer? Yes, it’s possible to make fudge without a thermometer, but it’s more challenging. To check if the mixture is ready, drop a small spoonful into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready for the next step.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this fudge? Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and plant-based butter for a dairy-free version of this fudge. Be sure to check that the other ingredients are also dairy-free.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Butter Pecan Fudge is a delectable treat that combines sweetness with rich, nutty flavors, creating a confection that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it for the holidays, share it as a gift, or savor it as a personal indulgence, this fudge is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. The blend of brown sugar, cinnamon, and toasted pecans provides a comforting, warm flavor that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can make this irresistible treat right at home. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser every time!