Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy
This nostalgic Southern treat is rich, buttery, and full of nutty crunch — the kind of candy your grandmother might have made for the holidays or special gatherings. “Oklahoma Nut Candy” combines caramelized sugar and toasted nuts in a melt-in-your-mouth fudge-like texture. It’s old-fashioned, simple, and deeply satisfying
History of Oklahoma Nut Candy
This candy dates back to the early 1900s when families in Oklahoma and surrounding states would make it during winter months as part of Christmas and fair-time traditions. Sugar, butter, and nuts were pantry staples, so this recipe became a classic regional favorite—sweet, nutty, and full of homemade charm.
Ingredients (Big Batch – makes about 4 pounds of candy)**
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups evaporated milk
- 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups chopped pecans (or walnuts)
- 1 ½ cups chopped almonds (optional)
- 1 ½ cups chopped peanuts (optional mix-in for crunch)
Instructions**
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans
- Grease two 9×13-inch pans or line them with parchment paper.
- You’ll pour the candy into these when it’s hot — have them ready!
Step 2: Cook the Syrup
- In a large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, evaporated milk, salt, and butter.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.
- Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches soft ball stage (235–240°F) on a candy thermometer.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Nuts
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract and your nuts (pecans, almonds, and peanuts).
- Stir briskly until the mixture begins to thicken and lose its gloss—this gives the candy its firm, creamy texture.
Step 4: Pour and Cool
- Quickly pour the candy mixture into your prepared pans.
- Smooth the surface with a buttered spatula.
- Allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
- Once firm, cut into small squares or rectangles.
Tips for Perfect Candy**
- Use a candy thermometer for best texture — too low, it’ll be soft; too high, it’ll turn brittle.
- Don’t over-stir while boiling, or the sugar may crystallize.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday twist.
- Toast nuts beforehand for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Piece, ~1 oz)**
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 17g
Benefits**
- High in healthy fats from nuts (good for heart health).
- Energy-rich for a quick pick-me-up.
- Homemade, so no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Who Loves It**
This candy is beloved by:
- Grandmothers and home bakers across Oklahoma and Texas.
- Families who grew up with “church potluck” desserts.
- Anyone who enjoys old-fashioned, nutty, buttery sweets!
Conclusion**
Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy is more than a dessert—it’s a bite of American heritage. Every chewy, nut-packed piece carries warmth, nostalgia, and the sweet comfort of home. Whether for Christmas, fairs, or gifting, it’s a timeless candy that never goes out of style.
