Christmas Pecan Logs
Delight in the festive charm of homemade Christmas Pecan Logs, a perfect holiday treat that marries creamy nougat, buttery caramel, and crunchy pecans in every bite. This classic candy recipe starts with a luscious nougat base, enhanced by sweetened condensed milk and a touch of vanilla for rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Each log is coated in silky melted caramel and rolled in finely chopped pecans, creating the ultimate balance between smooth and nutty textures. Ideal for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings, these indulgent pecan logs are as beautiful as they are delicious. With straightforward steps and a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is the perfect addition to your Christmas dessert lineup. Make these festive pecan logs a tradition, and savor the joy of the season in every bite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Light corn syrup
- 0.5 cup Water
- 0.75 cup Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
- 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 3 cups Powdered sugar
- 3 cups Pecans, finely chopped
- 14 ounces Caramels (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil without stirring.
When the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer, slowly stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Continue cooking while stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 260°F.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes.
In a stand mixer, beat the powdered sugar into the candy mixture until a thick, nougat-like dough forms. If it becomes too stiff, knead it by hand.
Divide the nougat dough into 6 portions. Shape each portion into a log about 4 inches long. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Place the caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Spread the chopped pecans on a large plate or shallow dish.
Dip each nougat log in the melted caramel, using a fork to coat it evenly. Let the excess drip off, then roll the log in the chopped pecans to coat completely. Place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
Allow the logs to set at room temperature for 2-3 hours or refrigerate for faster setting.
Slice into smaller pieces if desired, or wrap each log individually in wax paper or cellophane for gifting.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
8585 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 329.1 g | 422% | |
| Saturated Fat | 74.7 g | 374% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 195 mg | 65% | |
| Sodium | 913 mg | 40% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1420.3 g | 516% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.3 g | 115% | |
| Total Sugars | 1323.1 g | ||
| Protein | 54.7 g | 109% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 1181 mg | 91% | |
| Iron | 9.0 mg | 50% | |
| Potassium | 2531 mg | 54% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
