If there’s one showstopper you’ll want on your holiday dessert tray, it has to be Butter Pecan Fudge. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth base and that unmistakable toasted pecan crunch, every bite is pure, creamy indulgence. This is one of those treats that disappear quickly—after all, who can resist classic flavors made extra-special with a fudge twist? It’s as easy to make as it is to love, and it absolutely begs to be shared with friends, family, or anyone in need of a little sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry essentials to bring Butter Pecan Fudge to life, and each one plays a starring role in the final flavor and texture. It’s truly magic how these simple ingredients transform into something so luxurious!
- Unsalted Butter: Gives the fudge its rich, velvety foundation and buttery flavor that defines this classic treat.
- Heavy Cream: Adds the decadent creaminess that keeps each square moist and tender, never dry or crumbly.
- Light Brown Sugar, packed: Lends a deep, caramel-like sweetness and gorgeous golden color; packing makes sure you get the perfect amount!
- Powdered Sugar, sifted: Ensures a flawlessly smooth, creamy texture—no lumps allowed for our fudge!
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor, giving it that old-fashioned, cozy aroma you crave.
- Pecans, toasted and chopped: Brings nutty crunch and an unbeatable roasted flavor; toasting truly elevates every bite.
- Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and makes all the other flavors pop beautifully.
How to Make Butter Pecan Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it a breeze to lift out the finished fudge for easy cutting—no sticking, no mess!
Step 2: Melt and Mix the Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it turns glossy and begins to bubble just a bit. Stir in the heavy cream and brown sugar, whisking well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, continue stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes. This step thickens the base and helps develop that deep, caramel sweetness.
Step 3: Flavor and Thicken
Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly add the vanilla extract and a generous pinch of salt, stirring until those aromatics are fully infused. Now, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in small batches, stirring each time until silky smooth. By the end, the fudge mixture will look thick, creamy, and irresistible!
Step 4: Add the Toasted Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted and chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed. These golden nuggets are the soul of your Butter Pecan Fudge, adding the flavor and crunch everyone loves.
Step 5: Set and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to the edges with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour so it starts to set, then refrigerate for at least 2 more hours until it’s firm enough to cut into perfect squares. Lift the whole slab out by the parchment, slice, and get ready to wow your taste buds!
How to Serve Butter Pecan Fudge
Garnishes
I love to sprinkle a few extra toasted pecan pieces or a light pinch of flaky sea salt over the top before serving. You can also add a little dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy, festive finish that makes each square sparkle.
Side Dishes
Butter Pecan Fudge pairs beautifully with a mug of hot coffee, spiced chai, or even served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to balance out the richness, offer some fresh berries or citrus slices on the side for a pop of color and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a truly memorable presentation, stack the fudge squares in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for edible gifts, or arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for your next get-together. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces to serve as part of a holiday candy platter for easy grazing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Butter Pecan Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week—just bring it out to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
To make your batch last even longer, freeze individual squares of fudge between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Butter Pecan Fudge can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it perfect for enjoying a little treat whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
This fudge is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If frozen, just let the squares thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for 30 minutes before serving for that perfect creamy bite.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! Just skip the pinch of salt in the recipe, or taste your mixture before adding any—salted butter adds its own touch of seasoning.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
For the best flavor, spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Alternatively, you can use a dry skillet on the stovetop, stirring frequently to keep them from burning.
Can I swap out pecans for another nut?
Definitely. Walnuts or hazelnuts make a wonderful substitute if you’d like a different flavor or have a pecan allergy—just be sure to toast them first for maximum crunch and aroma.
How do I keep my fudge from getting grainy?
Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it ensures a smooth, creamy texture, and stirring constantly while boiling the base helps dissolve the brown sugar completely, preventing any graininess.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can! Use a 9×13-inch pan for a doubled batch and increase the chilling time to be sure it firms up nicely before cutting. Just be sure your saucepan is big enough to handle the extra volume.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the ultimate creamy, nutty treat, you can’t go wrong with a batch of Butter Pecan Fudge. It’s easy enough for a weeknight whim yet special enough for any celebration. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite for years to come!
Print
Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 36 small squares
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the rich and nutty flavor of Butter Pecan Fudge with this easy-to-follow recipe. Creamy, sweet, and loaded with toasted pecans, this fudge is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in heavy cream and brown sugar, bringing to a boil. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
- Add Flavor: Add vanilla and salt.
- Add Sugar: Gradually stir in powdered sugar until smooth and thick.
- Finish: Fold in toasted pecans. Pour mixture into prepared pan and spread evenly. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. Cut into squares before serving.
Notes
- For richer flavor, toast pecans in a dry skillet or in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes before chopping.
- Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
