Butter Pecan Fudge

Enter the holiday season with our cherished Butter Pecan Fudge recipe. A luscious blend of butter, toasted pecans, and brown sugar, this treat is the perfect festive indulgence for cozy gatherings and perfect for gifting. Our favorite fudge recipe that has NO chocolate added at all.

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The holidays are coming closer and if you are still looking for a quick and easy treat, I have just the thing for you! Butter Pecan Fudge!

Recently I made several different varieties of fudge and asked my sister’s staff to rate which ones they liked best. Surprisingly, most of them liked this recipe for buttery pecan fudge the best – the only one with absolutely no chocolate!

This fudge is just how we love it – very rich and full of pecans. The recipe yields a sweet, creamy, and nutty butter pecan fudge with a satisfying texture from the toasted pecans. The steps are relatively simple, making it accessible for even beginner cooks to create a wonderful homemade treat. Be sure to toast the pecans first to bring out the best flavor.

Ingredients

Butter. Provides a rich and creamy base for the fudge, contributing to its texture and flavor.
Sugar. Adds sweetness to the fudge.
Brown Sugar. Brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor and moistness to the fudge.
Salt. Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Vanilla. Adds a pleasant aroma and flavor to the fudge.
Powdered Sugar. Thickens the fudge and contributes to its smooth texture when combined with other ingredients.
Toasted Pecans. Provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the fudge.

How to Make Butter Pecan Fudge

butter and sugar being added to a saucepan to make fudge.

butter and brown sugar bubbling away at the stove.

Line an 8 inch baking pan with lightly buttered parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, whipping cream and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Add powdered sugar and stir until smooth. Fold in pecans.
Spread in prepared pan. Cool completely until firm.
Using parchment paper, lift from pan. Cut into 20 squares. Store in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted or unsalted butter in this recipe?

Yes, both salted and unsalted butter can be used. If using salted butter consider skipping the salt or adjusting the added salt. However, even if using salted butter, I would recommend adding a pinch more of salt as it helps balance out the sweetness.

What is the purpose of toasting the pecans, and can I use untoasted pecans instead?

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor by bringing out their natural oils. While toasting is recommended for a richer taste, untoasted pecans can still be used but I DO recommend you toast them. It takes no time at all and will make this fudge so much more flavorful.

What should I do if the fudge becomes grainy?

To prevent graininess, ensure the powdered sugar fully dissolves into the mixture while it’s warm. Thoroughly incorporate the powdered sugar before adding the pecans and allowing the fudge to cool.

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