19 Southern Style Pecan Candy Recipe Experience Culinary Bliss Now!

Ingredients

For the candy:

• 2 cups of white sugar
• 1 cup of light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 cups of chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the topping:

• 1 cup of chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup of white sugar

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the 2 cups of white sugar, 1 cup of light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Stir in the 2 cups of chopped pecans and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a temperature of 235 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the 1 cup of chopped pecans and 1/4 cup of white sugar for the topping.
7. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the candy while it is still warm.
8. Allow the candy to cool and harden before breaking it into pieces.
9. Store the pecan candy in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Tips and Tricks

If you want to add a little extra flavor to your pecan candy, try adding a pinch of salt to the mixture before boiling. This will bring out the sweetness and nuttiness of the pecans even more. You can also experiment with different types of nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for a unique twist on this classic southern treat.

When cooking the candy mixture, it's important to stir constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. This can also help ensure that the candy has a smooth and creamy texture.

If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the readiness of the candy mixture by dropping a small amount into a cup of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it is ready to be removed from the heat and poured onto the baking sheet.

For a fun and festive touch, you can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cooled pecan candy. This adds a rich and decadent layer that will have your taste buds dancing.

Conclusion

This southern-style pecan candy recipe is a true gem of the south – simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a holiday gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. So go ahead and give it a try, and let us know what you think!