If you’re searching for a sweet treat that melts in your mouth with buttery richness and a delightful crunch, this Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines creamy, velvety fudge with the natural warmth of toasted pecans for a heavenly dessert that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own. Whether you’re an experienced candy maker or just diving into the world of homemade sweets, this recipe is straightforward and so rewarding—you’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in this Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe plays a crucial role, working together to create a luscious and balanced flavor that’s both sweet and nutty. The ingredients are simple, but each brings something special to the final texture, taste, and appearance.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and depth to the fudge without any salty overtones.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Ensures the fudge stays soft and fudgy, providing a smooth, luscious bite.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: The perfect amount of sweetness that caramelizes slightly for classic fudge flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with warm, fragrant notes that harmonize beautifully with the pecans.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness by enhancing all the flavors and preventing the fudge from tasting flat.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted: Delivers crunchy texture and a toasty, nutty contrast that’s essential to the recipe.
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow cream: Brings fluffiness and smoothness, helping the fudge set perfectly soft rather than hard or grainy.
How to Make Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then lightly grease it. This step ensures your fudge won’t stick and you’ll have an easy time removing it once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Cream
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and heavy cream together, stirring occasionally. This mixture forms the rich base of your fudge and sets the stage for that decadent, creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine Sugar, Vanilla, and Salt
Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to your melted butter and cream. Stir until everything is combined and then bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. This cooking process dissolves the sugar properly and infuses the vanilla flavor throughout.
Step 4: Cook to Temperature
Continue cooking the mixture while stirring constantly for about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature—it should reach 234°F. Hitting this “soft-ball” temperature is crucial for achieving the ideal fudge consistency.
Step 5: Incorporate Marshmallow Cream
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the marshmallow cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The marshmallow cream adds softness and the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines this Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe.
Step 6: Add Toasted Pecans
Fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge. The toasting process unlocks the nuts’ nutty aroma and crunch, which are essential to complement the creamy fudge.
Step 7: Pour and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until fully firm. Patience here pays off with beautifully set pieces that slice cleanly.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once your fudge is set firm, lift it out using the parchment or foil and cut it into small, bite-sized squares. These are perfect for sharing—unless you decide to keep them all for yourself!
How to Serve Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the fudge itself is a showstopper, a few garnishes can elevate it visually and add a slight twist to the flavor. Sprinkling a few extra toasted pecans on top or adding a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate makes it even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Butter Pecan Fudge pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. The fudge’s sweetness balances out especially well with a robust beverage, making it an impressive addition to any dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your fudge squares on a decorative platter sprinkled lightly with powdered sugar or cinnamon. Wrapping individual pieces in colorful wax paper ribbons also makes for charming homemade gifts or party favors that will delight anyone lucky enough to receive them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, so you can indulge anytime you crave something sweet.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge even longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fudge lasts up to three months without losing its lovely texture or flavor.
Reheating
Fudge generally doesn’t require reheating to enjoy, but if you’d like it a little softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Avoid direct heat, which can melt the fudge unevenly and ruin its texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute nuts in this Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and complement the buttery flavor wonderfully, you can substitute walnuts or almonds depending on your preference or dietary needs. Just toast them lightly to maintain that signature crunch.
Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?
Using a candy thermometer ensures precision and helps you achieve the perfect fudge consistency. If you don’t have one, you can perform a soft-ball test by dropping a bit of the heated mixture into cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball that can be flattened between your fingers.
Can I make this recipe without marshmallow cream?
Marshmallow cream adds smoothness and fluffiness, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can try substituting with an equal amount of white corn syrup or a homemade marshmallow fluff. The texture may vary slightly, but your fudge will still be delicious.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
Refrigerating the fudge for at least 3 hours is important to ensure it firms up enough to cut cleanly. For best results, leaving it overnight in the fridge is ideal—this helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Can I add other flavors to this fudge?
Definitely! You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder to enhance the flavor complexity. Just be cautious not to overpower the classic butter and pecan notes that make this recipe so special.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about making and sharing this Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe. From the creamy, buttery base to the toasty pecan crunch, every bite feels like a warm, delicious hug. Give it a try—you might just find yourself hooked on this timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion or simple sweet cravings.
Print
Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and creamy Butter Pecan Fudge recipe combines the buttery smoothness of heavy cream and butter with toasted pecans for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Enhanced with marshmallow cream for a perfect texture, this fudge sets beautifully in the fridge and serves as an irresistible dessert or gift option.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (7 oz) jar of marshmallow cream
Add-in
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it to ensure easy release of the fudge once set.
- Melt Butter and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and heavy cream together, stirring occasionally until combined smoothly.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings: Stir in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle boil.
- Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer, which is the soft-ball stage ideal for fudge.
- Incorporate Marshmallow Cream: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the marshmallow cream thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Add Toasted Pecans: Fold in the toasted chopped pecans evenly throughout the fudge mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Pour and Spread: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge from the dish using the parchment or foil liner, cut into small squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature for perfect texture.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Store fudge in an airtight container refrigerated and consume within two weeks for best freshness.
- For easier cutting, allow the fudge to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.
