This Butter Pecan Fudge is a dream come true for fudge lovers, with its rich, buttery flavor and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and nutty, and best of all, it’s simple to make! With minimal cooking and setting time, this fudge is a delicious treat for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and creamy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Only a few steps and simple ingredients are needed to make this fudge.
- Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, butter, and toasted pecans creates a deep caramel-like flavor that’s irresistible.
- Perfect for Sharing: This fudge recipe makes 16 generous squares, ideal for gift-giving or holiday dessert tables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Add Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the brown sugar and milk, stirring continuously. Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Cool Slightly and Add Powdered Sugar
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Add Pecans
- Fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Pour and Set
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve. Enjoy your rich, creamy Butter Pecan Fudge!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan for cooking the fudge
- Skillet for toasting the pecans
- 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper
- Spatula for spreading the fudge evenly
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the fudge squares as a sweet dessert or snack. They pair well with coffee or hot chocolate!
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Extra Creaminess: For a slightly softer fudge, replace 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1/2 cup of cream cheese, adding it when you incorporate the powdered sugar.
- Nut Substitutes: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a mix of your favorite nuts for extra crunch.
- Salted Butter Twist: Use salted butter for a sweet and salty flavor combination that pairs beautifully with the pecans.
Helpful Tips
- Prevent Lumps: Ensure the powdered sugar is sifted to prevent lumps in the fudge mixture.
- Even Toasting: Toast pecans in a single layer in the skillet, stirring frequently for even toasting.
- Cooling Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can chill the fudge in the refrigerator to help it set faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter if you want a hint of saltiness. The salt enhances the flavor, giving the fudge a nice contrast.
2. Can I make this fudge without nuts?
Yes, simply omit the pecans for a smooth, creamy butter fudge. It will still be delicious!
3. Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar provides a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the butter and pecans. Substituting white sugar will change the flavor profile, but it will still work.
4. What if my fudge doesn’t set?
If the fudge hasn’t set after a few hours at room temperature, you can refrigerate it to help it firm up.
5. How can I cut the fudge cleanly?
For clean slices, chill the fudge for 15 minutes, then use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts for the best results.
This Butter Pecan Fudge is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its rich buttery flavor and nutty crunch, each bite is a little taste of heaven. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or just treating yourself, this easy fudge recipe is bound to become a favorite!
Butter Pecan Fudge: Creamy, Nutty, and Perfectly Sweet
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until fragrant. Set aside.
- Melt the Butter and Add Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and milk, stirring continuously until it reaches a boil. Let the mixture boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Cool Slightly and Add Sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until fully set. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and enjoy.
Notes
- For Extra Creaminess: For a slightly softer fudge, replace 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with cream cheese, adding it when you incorporate the powdered sugar.
- Nut Substitution: Swap pecans for walnuts if desired, or add a mix for additional flavor.