Pecan Chew
Pecan Chews are a rich, caramel-like candy loaded with toasted nuts. This simple stovetop recipe creates a sweet confection that is boiled to the hard-ball stage before being cooled and cut into bite-sized pieces.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 2 hr 35 min
- Serves
- 12
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 220 kcal
Allergen information: may contain milk, nuts, and tree nuts. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
candy
- 57 gunsalted butter
pan preparation
- 0.5 tspunsalted butter, softened, for greasing
Ingredients
- 0.5 cupgranulated sugar
- 0.25 cuplight brown sugar, packed
- 0.33 cuplight corn syrup
- 0.66 cupevaporated milk
- 3 tbspwater
- 0.25 tspsalt
- 0.13 tspbaking soda
- 1.33 cuppecan, roughly chopped
Equipment
silicone spatula · 8x8 inch baking pan · cutting board · knife · candy thermometer · heavy-bottomed saucepan
The method
Step by step
- 1
Thoroughly grease an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with the softened butter and set it aside.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Lining the pan with parchment paper after greasing can make it easier to lift the candy out later.
- 2
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, evaporated milk, water, salt, and the butter designated for the candy.
About 3 min
- 3
Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly with a silicone spatula until the sugar has completely dissolved.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Make sure no sugar crystals are stuck to the side of the pan to prevent crystallization.
- 4
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the tip is submerged in the mixture but not touching the bottom.
About 1 min
- 5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
About 2 min
- 6
Continue cooking, monitoring the temperature closely, until the thermometer reaches the hard-ball stage, 260°F (127°C).
About 10 min
Cook’s note: This stage is crucial for the final texture, so do not rush it or leave the pan unattended.
- 7
Immediately remove the pan from the heat once it reaches the target temperature.
- 8
Carefully stir in the baking soda; the mixture will foam up.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Work quickly in the next steps as the candy will begin to set.
- 9
Add the chopped pecans and stir vigorously for about one minute until they are evenly incorporated.
About 1 min
- 10
Quickly pour the hot candy mixture into your prepared baking pan.
About 1 min
- 11
Use a spatula to spread the mixture into an even layer before it starts to harden.
About 1 min
- 12
Let the candy cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm to the touch.
About 2 hr
Cook’s note: Do not refrigerate to cool, as this can affect the texture.
- 13
Once fully cooled and firm, turn the slab of candy out onto a cutting board and use a large, sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: If the candy is difficult to cut, you can lightly score the top when it's partially set.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 219.8kcal
- Protein
- 2.1g
- Carbs
- 22.8g
- Fat
- 14.2g
- Fibre
- 1.3g
- Sugar
- 21.4g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store in an airtight container at room temperature with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Serve at room temperature.
More recipes
All recipesmain course
Tripes à la Mode de Caen
Experience the rustic charm of Normandy with this classic Tripes à la Mode de Caen. Tender beef tripe is slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, aromatic broth infused with hard cider, Calvados, and a medley of vegetables, resulting in a deeply flavorful and comforting dish. This hearty stew, a true taste of French tradition, offers a unique culinary adventure for those seeking authentic regional cuisine.
6 hr 30 min 403 kcalmain course
Pierogi Z Mięsem
These traditional Polish dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat and onions, then boiled until tender. They are typically served with melted butter or fried onions, making for a comforting and hearty meal.
1 hr 20 min 727 kcaldessert
Kuih Lapis (Steamed Layer Cake)
This vibrant steamed layer cake is a traditional Malaysian dessert with a chewy, soft texture and a subtle pandan fragrance. Each colorful layer is cooked individually, creating a beautiful striped effect. It's a delightful treat that's both fun to make and delicious to eat.
3 hr 30 min 479 kcaldessert
Banh Pia (Durian Pastry)
Banh Pia is a flaky Vietnamese pastry with a sweet, aromatic durian and mung bean filling. This recipe creates a delightful balance of crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, perfect for a unique dessert experience.
1 hr 55 min 416 kcaldinner
Navarin d'Agneau
This classic French lamb stew, also known as lamb navarin, features tender lamb and spring vegetables braised in a rich, flavorful broth. It's a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2 hr 30 min 907 kcaldessert
Vegan Adzuki Bean Manju
These delightful Japanese steamed buns have a soft, slightly sweet exterior and are filled with a rich, subtly sweet red bean paste. They make a perfect light dessert or snack, offering a comforting taste of traditional confectionery.
1 hr 5 mindessert
Classic Rasgulla
These soft, spongy cheese dumplings are simmered in a light sugar syrup, offering a delicate and sweet dessert. This traditional Indian sweet is perfect for special occasions or as a satisfying treat.
2 hr 55 min 304 kcal