Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pecan Praline Fudge is a dream for anyone who loves rich, nutty, and buttery desserts. The brown sugar and cream create a luxurious base, while the toasted pecans add the perfect crunch and depth of flavor. With a smooth texture that melts in your mouth, this fudge is a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you don’t need to be a pro baker to enjoy this delicious treat. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a party, or just enjoying it on your own, this fudge is sure to impress!

Ingredients

2 cups (450g) packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
1/8 tsp baking soda
2 cups (230g) powdered sugar, sifted (could add up to 2 ½ cups for a firmer fudge)
1 cup (106g) chopped toasted pecans or candied pecans
Additional chopped pecans, for topping, if desired

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal of the fudge later.
Cook the Fudge Base: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the light brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, unsalted butter, and baking soda. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Bring to a Boil: Once the mixture is smooth, increase the heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken slightly.
Add Powdered Sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually stir in the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. If you want a firmer fudge, you can add up to 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar.
Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped toasted or candied pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and decoration, if desired.
Cool and Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours until it’s firm to the touch. You can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.
Slice and Serve: Once the fudge is completely set, cut it into small squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 16-20 squares (depending on the size you cut)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)

Variations

Chocolate Pecan Praline Fudge: For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the fudge base before adding the powdered sugar for a rich chocolate flavor.
Add a Caramel Layer: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the fudge before it sets for an added caramel layer to enhance the richness of the fudge.
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version of this fudge.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the pecan praline fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: This fudge doesn’t need reheating, as it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If it becomes too firm after refrigerating, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular pecans instead of toasted or candied pecans?

Yes, you can use regular pecans. However, to enhance the flavor, toasting the pecans in the oven for 5-7 minutes will bring out their natural oils and make the fudge more flavorful.

Can I make this fudge without baking soda?

Yes, the baking soda is optional. It helps the fudge set more quickly and provides a smoother texture, but it’s not necessary for the fudge to turn out well.

How do I know when the fudge is done?

The fudge is done when it has thickened to a pudding-like consistency after cooking for 5 minutes. You can test it by letting it cool for a minute and then spooning a small amount onto a plate. If it firms up as it cools, it’s ready.

Can I freeze Pecan Praline Fudge?

Yes, you can freeze the fudge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make this recipe with other nuts?

Yes, you can substitute the pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference.

Can I make the fudge firmer?

Yes, you can make the fudge firmer by adding a little more powdered sugar—up to 2 ½ cups instead of 2 cups.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking pan to make more fudge. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Can I add chocolate chips to the fudge?

Yes, you can fold in a handful of chocolate chips into the fudge mixture for a chocolatey twist!

How should I cut the fudge?

For clean cuts, make sure the fudge has cooled completely before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat pieces.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

While brown sugar is essential for the flavor of pralines, you can experiment with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor or try coconut sugar for a more natural alternative.

Conclusion

Pecan Praline Fudge is the ultimate indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of caramelized brown sugar and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s smooth, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making it a perfect snack, dessert, or holiday gift. This simple-to-make fudge will impress everyone who tries it and leave them coming back for more!

Pecan Praline Fudge

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)
Yield: 16-20 squares
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pecan Praline Fudge is a melt-in-your-mouth, rich, and creamy treat that blends the buttery flavor of pralines with smooth fudge. Packed with toasted pecans and a sweet brown sugar flavor, this fudge is perfect for holidays, gifting, or as an everyday indulgence. Easy to make and full of flavor, this decadent fudge will quickly become a new favorite!

Ingredients

2 cups (450g) packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
1/8 tsp baking soda
2 cups (230g) powdered sugar, sifted (up to 2 ½ cups for firmer fudge)
1 cup (106g) chopped toasted pecans or candied pecans
Additional chopped pecans for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Cook the Fudge Base: Combine brown sugar, cream, butter, and baking soda in a saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the butter melts and sugar dissolves.
Bring to a Boil: Increase heat to a gentle boil. Let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Add Powdered Sugar: Remove from heat and gradually stir in sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Add up to 2 ½ cups for firmer fudge.
Add Pecans: Stir in toasted or candied pecans until evenly distributed.
Set the Fudge: Pour mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Add additional chopped pecans on top if desired.
Cool and Set: Let cool for 1-2 hours at room temperature until firm, or refrigerate to speed up the process.
Slice and Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Variations: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder for chocolate pecan praline fudge or drizzle caramel for added richness.
Storage/Reheating: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, place at room temperature for a few minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American