Decadent Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe

Homemade Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe: Sweet Nutty Squares

Dive into a world of sweet, nutty bliss with this irresistible butter pecan fudge recipe that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy, rich textures melt seamlessly with the robust crunch of toasted pecans.

Each bite delivers a symphony of caramelized flavors that dance across your palate.

The recipe combines simple ingredients to create a decadent treat that feels like a warm culinary hug.

Pecans add a delightful crunch, complementing the smooth, buttery base with their earthy undertones.

This dessert transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Prepare to be transported to a realm of pure, unapologetic deliciousness that will leave everyone craving more.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Calories: 300 kcal

Servings: 11

All Ingredients For Butter Pecan Fudge

For Fats and Flavor Base:
  • Butter: Transforms into a rich, nutty brown butter that adds depth and complexity to the fudge's flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste experience.
For Sweetness and Binding:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Provides creamy sweetness and smooth texture, melting beautifully to create the fudge's luxurious base.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds rich sweetness and helps create the smooth, creamy consistency of the fudge.
For Aromatic Enhancements:
  • Vanilla: Introduces a warm, comforting background note that complements the nutty pecans and brown butter.
  • Cinnamon: Brings a subtle, warming spice that elevates the fudge's flavor complexity.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
For Textural Crunch:
  • Pecans: Adds a delightful nutty crunch and toasty flavor, providing a wonderful contrast to the smooth fudge base. Choose fresh, high-quality pecans for the best taste and texture.

What You’ll Use For Butter Pecan Fudge

  • Large Saucepan: Essential for melting butter and creating the fudge base with smooth, even heating.
  • Skillet: Perfect for toasting pecans and evenly coating them with butter.
  • 8×8-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for setting and shaping the fudge, creating clean, even squares.
  • Parchment Paper: Crucial for lining the baking dish and ensuring easy removal of the fudge.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring butter, mixing ingredients, and spreading fudge mixture.
  • Sharp Knife: Necessary for cutting the fudge into neat, uniform pieces.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps precisely measure ingredients for consistent results.

Step-By-Step Guide For Butter Pecan Fudge

Step-By-Step Guide For Butter Pecan Fudge
  • Brown Butter Magic

Warm butter gently in a saucepan, watching carefully as it transforms into a golden-hued liquid with a rich, nutty fragrance. Let it cool and rest, developing deeper flavors.

  • Pecan Transformation

Carefully toast pecans in a skillet, coating them with melted butter. Spread on a baking sheet and roast until they release their warm, inviting aroma. Chop into rustic pieces once cooled.

  • Fudge Fusion

Combine white chocolate chips with silky sweetened condensed milk and the prepared brown butter. Melt everything together over gentle heat, stirring until the mixture becomes luxuriously smooth. Fold in vanilla, a whisper of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix in the toasted pecans.

  • Setting and Chilling

Pour the creamy mixture into a parchment-lined dish, smoothing the surface with delicate strokes. Tuck the fudge into the refrigerator, allowing it to firm up and develop its rich character.

  • Serving Delight

Once fully set, slice the fudge into bite-sized squares. Let it rest at room temperature briefly before serving to experience the full depth of flavor. Store any remaining pieces in a sealed container, ready to be enjoyed.

Sweet Swaps For Butter Pecan Fudge

  • Pecan Perfection: Expert Tips & Delicious Twists
  • Nutty Brown Butter Magic: Take extra care when browning butter – watch closely and swirl the pan to prevent burning. The rich, caramel-like flavor transforms the entire fudge experience.
  • Make-Ahead Meal Prep: This fudge stores beautifully for up to two weeks in an airtight container. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper for easy gifting or quick grab-and-go treats.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Double-check your white chocolate chips to ensure they're gluten-free. Most pure white chocolate chips work perfectly for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and use dairy-free white chocolate chips. The result maintains the creamy texture while accommodating dairy-free diets.
  • Flavor Boost Technique: Enhance the pecan flavor by adding a tiny splash of bourbon or maple extract when mixing in the vanilla. This secret ingredient deepens the nutty, rich profile of the fudge.

Best Time To Serve Butter Pecan Fudge

  • Festive Party Platter: Arrange fudge squares on a decorative wooden board, sprinkled with extra toasted pecans and a light dusting of cinnamon for an elegant holiday dessert presentation.
  • Decadent Coffee Companion: Serve chilled fudge squares alongside a hot espresso or cappuccino, creating a luxurious sweet and bitter flavor combination that enhances the rich pecan notes.
  • Ice Cream Accent: Crumble fudge pieces over vanilla bean or butter pecan ice cream, adding a delightful crunch and nutty warmth to transform a simple dessert into a gourmet treat.
  • Gift-Worthy Packaging: Package individual fudge squares in small clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine, perfect for homemade holiday gifts or thoughtful personal treats.

Store Butter Pecan Fudge Without Losing Texture

  • Fridge-Friendly Storage: Keep the fudge in an airtight container, layered between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking. Refrigeration helps maintain its creamy texture for up to 10 days.
  • Temperature Timing: Remove fudge from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Cold fudge can feel hard, while room temperature allows the rich, buttery flavors to bloom.
  • Freezer Stash Strategy: Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge stays delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
  • Gift-Ready Packaging: Stack fudge pieces in decorative tins or cellophane bags with a ribbon. Include a small card noting storage instructions to help recipients enjoy the treat at its best quality.
Print
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Decadent Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe

Decadent Butter Pecan Fudge Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Southern butter pecan fudge delivers sweet, creamy indulgence from traditional family kitchens. Nutty pecans and rich butter create a melt-in-mouth confection you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 bags (12 oz/340 g) white chocolate chips
  • 1 can (14 oz/397 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 5 tbsps butter
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Caramelize Base: Melt unsalted butter in a spacious saucepan, swirling until it transforms into a rich, amber-hued liquid with a nutty aroma. Let the brown butter cool to room temperature.
  2. Roast Pecans: In a skillet, coat chopped pecans with butter, then spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in a preheated 350°F oven until golden and fragrant. Roughly chop the toasted pecans once cooled.
  3. Create Fudge Mixture: Merge white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and cooled brown butter in a medium saucepan. Apply gentle heat, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes a smooth, glossy blend.
  4. Season and Combine: Introduce vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the molten mixture. Gently fold in the roasted pecan fragments, ensuring even distribution throughout the fudge base.
  5. Set and Chill: Line an 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal. Pour the fudge mixture, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Refrigerate for 3 hours until firm and slice-able.
  6. Serve and Store: Remove the fudge using parchment edges, cut into bite-sized squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, let squares rest at room temperature to enhance their creamy texture and nutty essence.

Notes

  • Prevent Burning Butter: Watch brown butter carefully, as it can quickly transition from golden to burnt. Remove from heat the moment it reaches a deep amber color and emits a nutty aroma.
  • Toasting Pecans Technique: Spread pecans evenly on baking sheet to ensure uniform roasting. Stir occasionally to prevent uneven browning and bitter spots.
  • Smooth Fudge Consistency: Maintain low, steady heat while mixing ingredients to prevent chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy. Stir continuously for a silky, creamy texture.
  • Storage and Serving Hack: Let fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing its rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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