Old-Fashioned Pecan Logs Recipe

Introduction

Old-Fashioned Pecan Logs are a nostalgic treat featuring a chewy nougat center dipped in luscious caramel and coated with toasted pecans. This classic candy is perfect for holiday gifts or a sweet homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 large egg white, beaten until stiff peaks form
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 12 ounces soft caramels
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 cups pecan pieces, chopped and toasted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then continue cooking until the syrup reaches 250°F (soft-ball stage).
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, beat the egg white in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
4. Step 4: Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg white while continuing to beat. Add vanilla extract and salt, then beat until the mixture is thick and glossy.
5. Step 5: Grease your hands lightly and shape the nougat mixture into 3 to 4 logs. Wrap the logs and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
6. Step 6: Melt the soft caramels with heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Allow the caramel to cool slightly to thicken.
7. Step 7: Dip each chilled nougat log into the caramel, then roll it in the toasted pecans, pressing gently to coat evenly.
8. Step 8: Let the coated logs set for about 30 minutes. Slice and enjoy, or wrap for gifting.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly to enhance their nuttiness before coating.
• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature for perfect nougat texture.
• If you prefer, substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans to create a different nutty twist.
• Keep the nougat logs chilled before dipping to make handling easier and prevent melting.

Storage

Store pecan logs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving. To re-soften slightly, warm gently for a few seconds in the microwave if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans if you prefer. Toasting the nuts before coating is recommended to enhance their flavor.

How do I know the syrup is ready?

Use a candy thermometer to heat the syrup to 250°F (soft-ball stage). At this temperature, the syrup will form a soft, pliable ball when dropped into cold water, ensuring the perfect nougat texture.

Old-Fashioned Pecan Logs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 72 reviews

Old-Fashioned Pecan Logs are a classic Southern candy featuring a fluffy nougat center dipped in creamy caramel and rolled in toasted pecans. These bite-sized treats combine the rich flavors of vanilla, caramel, and pecans for a nostalgic dessert perfect for holidays and gift-giving.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Nougat

• Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups
• Light Corn Syrup: 1/2 cup
• Water: 1/4 cup
• Egg White: 1 large, beaten until stiff peaks form
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/8 teaspoon

Caramel Coating

• Soft Caramels: 12 ounces
• Heavy Cream: 2 tablespoons

Topping

• Pecan Pieces: 2 cups, chopped and toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, stir together granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Continue heating the mixture until it reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Beat Egg White: In a separate large bowl, beat the egg white with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, indicating the right consistency for folding in the syrup.
4. Incorporate Hot Syrup: Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the beaten egg white while continuously beating at medium-high speed. Add vanilla extract and salt, then continue to beat until the mixture becomes thick and glossy, resembling a fluffy nougat.
5. Shape Logs: Grease your hands with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking. Form the nougat mixture into 3 to 4 evenly sized logs. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
6. Melt Caramel: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the soft caramels with heavy cream, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and pourable. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly so it thickens but remains dip-friendly.
7. Dip and Coat: Remove chilled nougat logs from the refrigerator. Dip each log into the warm caramel coating, ensuring it is fully covered. Immediately roll the caramel-coated logs in the toasted pecan pieces, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
8. Set and Serve: Place the pecan logs on parchment paper and let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until the caramel firms up. Slice into desired portions and serve. Store any leftovers wrapped in an airtight container or gift wrap appropriately.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature (250°F) for the perfect nougat texture.
• Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is crucial for a light, airy nougat consistency.
• Greasing your hands prevents the sticky nougat from sticking while shaping the logs.
• To toast pecans, keep stirring them on medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they release a nutty aroma.
• Store pecan logs in a cool, dry place; they can also be refrigerated to extend freshness.
• This recipe contains egg whites and dairy, so it is not suitable for vegan diets.

Keywords: pecan logs, old-fashioned candy, nougat, caramel, pecan treats, holiday candy, Southern sweets