Name: White Chocolate Pecan Candy
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Pecans (coarsely chopped); 1 1/2 cups Vanilla melting wafers; 1 can (14-ounce) Sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon Salt

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As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisp, I can’t help but think about one of my favorite treats: White Chocolate Pecan Candy. There’s something magical about the combination of smooth, sweet white chocolate and crunchy, earthy pecans that transforms the simplest of moments into something special. I remember the first time I made this candy—my kitchen filled with the warm aroma of toasted pecans as they baked in the oven, and every stir of the melting chocolate felt like a step closer to a delicious reward. This recipe is not just about the flavors; it’s about making memories. Whether it’s for a fall gathering, a cozy evening at home, or a holiday treat to gift to friends and family, White Chocolate Pecan Candy is always a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive in and make this delightful treat together!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
7 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

Why This White Chocolate Pecan Candy Hits Different

Irresistible Flavor Combination

One of the main reasons I adore White Chocolate Pecan Candy is the incredible fusion of flavors it presents. The sweet, creamy texture of white chocolate pairs perfectly with the nutty, buttery taste of pecans. Together, they create a wonderfully rich experience that keeps you coming back for more. You can’t help but savor every bite!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This candy is versatile enough to fit any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, preparing treats for the holidays, or just indulging yourself on a cozy evening, White Chocolate Pecan Candy never disappoints. I love serving it as a sweet snack during movie nights or packing it into gift boxes for friends.

Quick and Easy to Make

When life gets busy, it’s nice to have a recipe that doesn’t require hours of preparation. The best part about White Chocolate Pecan Candy is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for those spontaneous cravings!

Great for Sharing

There’s something so satisfying about sharing homemade treats with loved ones. This candy is an excellent option for sharing because it can easily be cut into squares, making it simple to serve at parties or gatherings. Plus, everyone loves a sweet treat!

Customizable Treat

While I love the classic combination of white chocolate and pecans, this recipe is easily adaptable. You can mix in your favorite nuts, add some dried fruit, or even swirl in a bit of melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, making White Chocolate Pecan Candy a fun culinary adventure.

Fun for Kids

If you’re looking for an activity to do with the kids, making White Chocolate Pecan Candy is a great choice! They can help with stirring the ingredients, spreading the mixture, and of course, enjoying the final product. It’s a sweet way to bond and create memories in the kitchen!

What You Need for White Chocolate Pecan Candy

The ingredients for White Chocolate Pecan Candy come together to create a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the final outcome, resulting in a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The star ingredients are the rich white chocolate and the pecans, which add a lovely crunch. Together, they form a harmonious blend that’s delightful to savor.

Pecans: 3 cups coarsely chopped pecans bring a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch to the candy.
Vanilla melting wafers: 1 1/2 cups of vanilla melting wafers create a sweet, creamy base that holds everything together.
Sweetened condensed milk: 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and sweetness, enhancing the creamy texture of the candy.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract enriches the flavor profile, adding depth to the sweet notes.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

The Process for Making White Chocolate Pecan Candy

Making White Chocolate Pecan Candy is a straightforward process that results in a delightful treat. You’ll find that the steps are simple and enjoyable. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on creating this delicious candy!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for toasting the pecans and enhancing their flavor. The goal here is to release those nutty oils that make them so delicious!
Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet. Place them in the oven for about 8 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step is crucial as it ensures the pecans are evenly toasted, developing a rich flavor and a lovely crunch.
While the pecans are toasting, prepare your jelly roll pan by lining it with wax paper or parchment paper. A 15×10-inch jelly roll pan works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure it’s securely lined so your candy can be easily removed later.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the vanilla melting wafers and the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave this mixture at 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This gentle heating helps to prevent the chocolate from seizing, resulting in a creamy consistency.
Once melted, quickly stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. The warmth of the melted chocolate will keep everything nice and blended, so don’t hesitate to mix thoroughly.
Transfer the mixture into your prepared jelly roll pan. Spread it out evenly to your desired thickness. You don’t have to spread it all the way to the edges, leaving it a bit thicker in the center adds texture and richness to each bite.
Now, refrigerate the pan for 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the candy to set properly, making it easier to cut into squares later.
Once set, remove the candy from the fridge and carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares, and you’re ready to enjoy your White Chocolate Pecan Candy!
Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container. However, I doubt there will be many leftovers with such a delicious treat on hand!

Things Worth Knowing

Toasting pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their natural flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Chocolate melting: Be cautious while melting the chocolate in the microwave. Stirring after each interval prevents overheating and ensures a smooth consistency.
Chilling time: The chilling time can vary based on your fridge. Make sure the candy is fully set before attempting to cut it.
Ingredient quality: Using high-quality vanilla melting wafers can significantly impact the taste of your candy. Opt for brands that you trust for the best results.
Storage: Your White Chocolate Pecan Candy can be stored at room temperature, but if your environment is warm, consider refrigerating it to maintain its texture.

Tips and Tricks about White Chocolate Pecan Candy

When it comes to making White Chocolate Pecan Candy, there are a few tips that can help elevate your results. Here are some insights to help you create the perfect batch:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them to keep them fresh.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze White Chocolate Pecan Candy. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container for up to three months.
Pairing: This candy pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Variations: Experiment by adding dried fruits or other nuts to create your own unique blend!
Gift options: Consider packaging the candy in decorative boxes to give as gifts. It’s always a hit during the holidays!

What to Pair With White Chocolate Pecan Candy

When serving White Chocolate Pecan Candy, consider these delightful pairings to enhance the experience:

Hot Beverages: Enjoy this candy with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Fruit Slices: Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the candy.
Cheese Platter: Pair it with a cheese platter for a sophisticated touch. Creamy cheeses complement the sweetness beautifully.
Seasonal Occasions: This candy is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, serving as a sweet dessert option.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.

FAQ

Absolutely! White Chocolate Pecan Candy can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. I recommend making it at least a day or two in advance if you’re planning for a special occasion. Just store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, the flavors have time to meld, and it will be ready to impress your guests right when you need it!

To keep your White Chocolate Pecan Candy fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s a good idea to refrigerate it to prevent melting. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. If you have a lot left over, you can even freeze it! Just wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should stay fresh for up to three months!

Definitely! While I love the traditional pecans, this recipe is very flexible. You can swap out pecans for other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep in mind that different nuts will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the final candy. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that you love best!

Yes, you can make White Chocolate Pecan Candy without nuts if you prefer. The candy will still have a delightful sweetness and creamy texture. You can even add in some dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries, for a different twist, which would add both sweetness and a bit of chewiness. Just keep in mind that if you decide to forgo the nuts, it may not have the same crunch!

Conclusion

Ultimately, White Chocolate Pecan Candy is a sweet treat that embodies comfort and joy. With its creamy white chocolate and crunchy pecans, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. You won’t be disappointed, and I bet it will become a favorite in your home too!