Here’s a simple, classic peanut pecan candy recipe you can make at home. It’s sweet, crunchy, and nutty—perfect for snacks or gifting! 🥜🍬
Peanut Pecan Candy (Step-by-Step)
🥘 Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peanuts (roasted, unsalted)
- 1 cup pecans (halves or chopped)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Candy thermometer (optional but recommended)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.
- Have nuts measured and ready—once the candy is hot, it moves fast!
Step 2: Cook Sugar Syrup
- In a medium saucepan, combine:
- Sugar
- Corn syrup
- Water
- Salt
- Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Allow it to boil without stirring until the mixture reaches hard-ball stage (250–265°F / 121–129°C) on a candy thermometer.
Step 3: Add Butter and Nuts
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Quickly fold in peanuts and pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread Candy
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer (about ¼–½ inch thick).
- Let it cool completely at room temperature until firm.
Step 5: Break into Pieces
- Once hardened, break the candy into squares or irregular chunks.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips
- Roast the nuts lightly for extra flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
- Be careful when handling hot sugar—it can burn quickly.