Traditional Pecan Log Candy
These old-fashioned treats feature a soft, divinity-like center wrapped in smooth caramel and finished with crunchy pecans. Inspired by classic roadside candies, they’re a nostalgic favorite and make a wonderful homemade gift.
Classic Pecan Logs
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salted butter | ½ cup |
| Light corn syrup | ½ cup |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups |
| Dry powdered milk | ½ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Soft caramels, unwrapped | 16 oz |
| Milk | 4–5 tablespoons |
| Chopped pecans | 4 cups |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly spray a 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the butter, corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Thicken the Mixture
Bring the mixture just to a gentle simmer, then remove it from the heat. Stir in the powdered sugar, powdered milk, and vanilla. The mixture will thicken quickly.
Step 4: Press and Cool
Press the thick mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Let it cool until no longer warm, about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Shape the Logs
Cut the slab into four equal strips, then cut each strip in half to make eight portions. Roll each piece on parchment paper to form log shapes. Place on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.
Step 6: Melt the Caramel
Using a double boiler, melt the caramels with the milk, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Coat with Pecans
Spread the chopped pecans in a shallow dish. Dip each chilled log into the melted caramel until fully coated, then roll in the pecans, pressing gently so they adhere.
Step 8: Set and Slice
Place the coated logs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to set. Once firm, slice into ½-inch pieces and serve.
✨ Sweet, nostalgic, and irresistibly crunchy, these classic pecan logs bring back the charm of old-fashioned candy making.
