If you’re searching for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and creamy fudge, look no further than this Butter Pecan Fudge recipe. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because, this decadent dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends. With its creamy texture and delightful crunch, Butter Pecan Fudge is a must-try for any fudge lover.
What Makes Butter Pecan Fudge Special?
Butter Pecan Fudge is a delightful twist on traditional fudge. It features buttery flavors enhanced by toasted pecans, giving it a unique and indulgent taste. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors makes it a standout dessert that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re gifting it in cute boxes or serving it on a dessert platter, this fudge is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Butter Pecan Fudge, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- ½ cup of unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup of evaporated milk
- 2 cups of white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of chopped pecans (toasted for added flavor)
- A pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins:
For a twist, consider adding a teaspoon of maple extract or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Base
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk.
- Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Combine with Chocolate and Pecans
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in the white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Pour and Set
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until it’s set. For quicker setting, you can place it in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, buttery flavors with the delightful crunch of pecans in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Butter Pecan Fudge
- Avoid Crystallization: Make sure to stir constantly while the sugar mixture is boiling to prevent it from crystallizing.
- Toasting Nuts: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butter Pecan Fudge is not only simple to make, but it also brings a luxurious taste that rivals store-bought confections. With its creamy texture and nutty crunch, it’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills!
Conclusion
Indulging in Butter Pecan Fudge is a delightful experience that captures the essence of homemade goodness. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift for others, this fudge is sure to leave a lasting impression. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the deliciousness of this delightful treat.
Certainly! Here are some detailed Serving and Storage Tips for your Butter Pecan Fudge:
Serving Tips
- Presentation:
- For an appealing presentation, arrange the fudge squares on a decorative platter or in individual cupcake liners. This makes for a beautiful display, especially at parties or gatherings.
- You can also drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel over the fudge before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pairings:
- Butter Pecan Fudge pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea. Consider serving it alongside these beverages for a delightful afternoon treat.
- It also complements desserts like vanilla ice cream or cheesecake, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
- Gifting:
- Wrap pieces of fudge in cellophane or place them in small gift boxes with a festive ribbon. This makes a lovely homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or just as a thoughtful gesture for friends and family.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature:
- Store your Butter Pecan Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the fudge soft and chewy.
- Be sure to separate layers of fudge with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Refrigeration:
- If you prefer your fudge a bit firmer, you can store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
- When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before cutting.
- Freezing:
- Butter Pecan Fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- When you’re ready to enjoy the fudge, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Shelf Life:
- When stored properly, Butter Pecan Fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Butter Pecan Fudge remains fresh and delicious, ready to delight your taste buds or impress your guests whenever you choose to indulge. Enjoy your fudge, and share it with loved ones!
FAQ 1: Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Answer: Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in Butter Pecan Fudge, you can easily substitute them with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just make sure to toast the nuts for enhanced flavor before adding them to the fudge.
FAQ 2: Can I make Butter Pecan Fudge dairy-free?
Answer: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of Butter Pecan Fudge by using dairy-free butter and coconut milk or almond milk instead of evaporated milk. Additionally, opt for dairy-free white chocolate chips to keep the recipe fully dairy-free.
FAQ 3: What should I do if my fudge is too soft?
Answer: If your Butter Pecan Fudge turns out too soft, it may not have been cooked long enough or cooled adequately. To fix this, you can place the fudge in the refrigerator for a few hours to firm up. If it’s still too soft, consider reheating the fudge mixture and adding a bit more sugar or chocolate to help it set.
FAQ 4: How can I tell when the fudge is done cooking?
Answer: The fudge is done cooking when it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is around 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can perform a cold water test: drop a small amount of the fudge mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape but can be flattened, it’s ready to be removed from heat.
Print
Butter Pecan Fudge
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Butter Pecan Fudge combines the rich flavors of brown butter, sweetened condensed milk, and toasted pecans. Perfect for holiday treats or any time you crave something decadent and nutty, this fudge is easy to make and doesn’t require a candy thermometer.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided (for browning and toasting pecans)
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 bags white chocolate chips (12 oz each)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Prepare the Brown Butter:
- In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Continue heating, stirring often, until it turns a golden brown color and releases a nutty aroma. Set aside to cool.
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Toast the Pecans:
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped pecans and stir to coat. Spread the pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Let cool slightly, then give them a rough chop.
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Make the Fudge:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and the cooled brown butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, followed by the toasted pecans.
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Set the Fudge:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Press lightly with a second sheet of parchment to smooth the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours until firm.
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Serve:
- Once set, remove the fudge from the dish and cut it into small squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- Storage: Store fudge in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Tip: Fudge tastes best when served at room temperature, so let it sit out for an hour before serving.