Description
This delightful Butter Pecan Fudge recipe combines rich, creamy chocolate with buttery pecans for a melt-in-your-mouth treat. Perfect for holiday gifts or a sweet indulgence, this fudge offers a smooth texture with a satisfying crunch from toasted pecans, all wrapped up in a classic buttery flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Flavor and Mix-ins
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix granulated sugar, unsalted butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to gently boil.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Continue stirring as the mixture boils for about 5 minutes or until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer, which ensures proper fudge texture.
- Add Chocolate, Vanilla, and Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. Mix until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool undisturbed at room temperature for approximately 2 hours or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Serve: Once fully set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Notes
- Toasting pecans before adding intensifies their flavor and adds crunch.
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to achieve the perfect fudge texture.
- Allow fudge to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (1 inch square)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: butter pecan fudge, chocolate fudge, homemade fudge, pecan dessert, holiday fudge, easy fudge recipe
