Old-Fashioned Pecan Logs Recipe
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.
- 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
- Preheat Your Equipment: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/old-fashioned-pecan-logs-recipe/
