Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy is a classic homemade treat—sweet, buttery, and packed with crunchy nuts. It’s similar to a soft praline or old-style nut brittle and has been popular in Oklahoma kitchens for generations. 🍬🥜
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are most common)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare a pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly butter it. - Cook the sugar mixture
In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. - Bring to soft-ball stage
Let the mixture cook until it reaches about 235–240°F (113–116°C) or forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water. - Add flavor and nuts
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped nuts. - Beat the mixture
Stir vigorously for 1–2 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. - Drop the candy
Spoon small portions onto the prepared baking sheet. - Let it set
Allow the candy to cool and harden for about 30 minutes.
Tips
✔ Pecans are the traditional Oklahoma choice.
✔ Stir constantly to prevent burning.
✔ Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
The result is a rich, creamy, nutty candy with a slightly crumbly texture—perfect for holidays or homemade gifts. 🎁
If you’d like, I can also show you:
- The 3-ingredient version of this old-fashioned candy
- A quicker microwave nut candy recipe
- The trick that keeps homemade candy from turning grainy.
