Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy

Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy is a traditional sweet treat, especially popular in the Southern U.S., including Oklahoma. It’s a type of brown sugar or molasses-based candy that’s packed with pecans or walnuts, and has a fudgy or praline-like texture. Often made during the holidays, it’s rich, sweet, and nostalgic.

Here’s a classic recipe you might enjoy:

🍬 Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for richer flavor)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups chopped pecans (or walnuts)

Optional:

• A pinch of salt

• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (for smoother texture)

Instructions:

1. Prep:
   Butter a small baking dish or line with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. Cook the sugar mixture:
   In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and milk. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.

3. Boil:
   Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage (234–240°F / 112–116°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a bit of the mixture into cold water — if it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it’s ready.

4. Add butter and vanilla:
   Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla. Let the mixture cool slightly (about 5 minutes).

5. Beat and add nuts:
   Beat the mixture until it begins to thicken and lose its gloss. Stir in chopped nuts.

6. Pour and set:
   Quickly pour into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Let it cool completely at room temperature.

7. Cut and enjoy:
   Once set, cut into squares and store in an airtight container.

Tips:

• Using evaporated milk instead of regular milk gives it a richer, creamier flavor.

• Don’t skip the beating step — it helps achieve the classic fudge-like texture.

• Try toasting the nuts beforehand for extra depth of flavor.