Description
This rich and creamy Butter Pecan Fudge combines the smoothness of melted butter and heavy cream with sweet granulated sugar and velvety marshmallow cream, all enhanced by toasted pecans for a delightful crunch. Perfectly set after chilling, this classic Southern-inspired fudge is a decadent treat for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow cream
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt butter and cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and heavy cream. Stir occasionally until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add sugar and flavorings: Stir in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle boil.
- Cook to soft-ball stage: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until it reaches 234°F on a candy thermometer, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This temperature corresponds to the soft-ball stage crucial for fudge texture.
- Incorporate marshmallow cream: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the marshmallow cream until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform.
- Add toasted pecans: Fold in the toasted pecans evenly to distribute their flavor and crunch throughout the fudge mixture.
- Transfer and chill: Pour the fudge batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Serve: Once the fudge has set, lift it out of the dish using the parchment or foil edges, cut into small squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure you toast the pecans prior to adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to accurately reach the soft-ball stage at 234°F for the perfect fudge texture.
- For easy removal, make sure to grease the parchment or foil-lined baking dish well.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness; it can last up to two weeks.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for the best mouthfeel.
