I finally got this recipe from my mother last Christmas and made three batches of the stuff! I always loved it as a kid and no one can keep their hands off it. I had always assumed that Aunt Bill was some distant relative so I was surprised to find this was not a family recipe, but a pretty famous one, haha!" I post recipes frequently. Don’t miss the next one!

 

Oklahoma Nut Candy — A Classic Southern Delight

Oklahoma Nut Candy is a beloved Southern treat, cherished for its rich, buttery, sweet, and nutty flavor. With a crunchy, caramelized exterior and the natural warmth of toasted nuts, this candy is a perfect homemade gift or indulgence for any occasion. This guide provides a complete overview, from ingredient selection to storage, ensuring success even for first-time candy makers.

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What Makes Oklahoma Nut Candy Special

Oklahoma Nut Candy stands out because of its:

1. Nutty Flavor: Typically pecans or walnuts, lightly roasted, give depth and crunch.

2. Caramelized Sugar: Sweet and buttery coating that hardens beautifully.

3. Southern Tradition: Often passed down through generations, popular at holidays and fairs.

This candy combines simple ingredients but requires attention to detail, particularly in temperature and timing, to achieve perfect texture and flavor.

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Ingredients

This recipe yields approximately 24 pieces.

Candy Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• ½ cup water

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 cups pecans or walnuts, toasted

• Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin spice for subtle warmth

Tools You’ll Need

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Candy thermometer

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

• Baking sheet lined with parchment or silicone mat

• Measuring cups and spoons

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Step 1: Toast the Nuts

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.

3. Toast for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway to prevent burning.

4. Remove and let cool slightly.

Tip: Toasting intensifies nut flavor and prevents soggy candy.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water.

2. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and sugar dissolves.

3. Clip a candy thermometer to the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the pan bottom.

4. Continue cooking without stirring once it begins to boil.

Tip: Heavy-bottomed pans distribute heat evenly, reducing risk of burning sugar.

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Step 3: Cook to Soft-Ball Stage

1. Monitor temperature until it reaches 235–240°F (soft-ball stage).

2. Remove from heat immediately.

3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.

4. Fold in toasted nuts until evenly coated.

Tip: Soft-ball stage ensures candy sets with the correct texture — not too hard, not too soft.

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Step 4: Shape the Candy

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.

2. Using a spoon, drop small clusters of nut mixture onto the sheet.

3. Work quickly, as the candy hardens fast.

Tip: Dipping the spoon in hot water prevents sticking and allows smoother candy drops.

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Step 5: Cool and Set

1. Allow candy to cool completely at room temperature, about 30–60 minutes.

2. Once hardened, gently remove from parchment.

Tip: Avoid refrigerating immediately; condensation can cause candy to become sticky.

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Tips for Perfect Oklahoma Nut Candy

1. Monitor Temperature Closely: Candy-making requires precision. Use a reliable candy thermometer.

2. Use Fresh Nuts: Freshly toasted nuts enhance flavor and texture.

3. Work Quickly: Sugar mixture hardens fast; prepare baking sheet and tools before cooking.

4. Avoid Stirring While Boiling: Stirring can cause sugar crystallization, making candy grainy.

5. Butter Quality: Unsalted, high-fat butter improves flavor and texture.

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Variations

1. Spiced Nut Candy: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice for seasonal flavors.

2. Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.

3. Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a flavor contrast.

4. Honey Glaze: Substitute ¼ cup of corn syrup with honey for a floral sweetness.

5. Mixed Nuts: Combine pecans, walnuts, and almonds for variety.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Candy is Grainy

• Cause: Sugar crystallization

• Fix: Avoid stirring once sugar mixture boils; wipe down pan edges with wet pastry brush

2. Candy Does Not Set

• Cause: Did not reach soft-ball stage

• Fix: Reheat gently to 235–240°F

3. Sticky Candy

• Cause: High humidity or improper cooling

• Fix: Cool in a dry room; store in airtight container

4. Burned Sugar

• Cause: High heat or uneven pan

• Fix: Use medium heat; stir only until sugar dissolves

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Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• Refrigerator: Up to 3 weeks; bring to room temp before serving.

• Freezer: Store in layers separated by parchment paper; lasts up to 2 months.

Tip: Keep away from moisture to maintain crisp texture.

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Serving Suggestions

• Gift Idea: Wrap in parchment and tie with ribbon for homemade presents.

• Holiday Treat: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter.

• Dessert Topping: Chop and sprinkle over ice cream or brownies.

• Snack: Pair with coffee or tea for a Southern-inspired afternoon treat.

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Step-by-Step Summary for Quick Reference

1. Preheat oven and toast nuts.

2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water; heat over medium heat.

3. Bring mixture to soft-ball stage (235–240°F).

4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla, salt, and nuts.

5. Drop clusters onto prepared baking sheet.

6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

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Advanced Tips for Candy Makers

1. Pan Choice: Use thick, heavy-bottomed pans to prevent hot spots.

2. Flavor Boost: Lightly toast vanilla beans in sugar syrup for extra depth.

3. Nut Preparation: Lightly butter nuts before mixing to improve coating adhesion.

4. Temperature Test Without Thermometer: Drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.

5. Batch Management: Work in smaller batches if your stovetop cannot maintain consistent heat.

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Why Oklahoma Nut Candy is a Southern Classic

• Heritage Recipe: Passed down through generations in Oklahoma and Southern states.

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples to create an indulgent treat.

• Versatility: Suitable for gifting, dessert, or snack.

• Textural Delight: Crunchy nuts with buttery, caramelized coating create a satisfying bite.

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Serving Ideas for Every Occasion

• Holidays: Package in cellophane bags for Christmas or Thanksgiving treats.

• Parties: Arrange on dessert platters with other Southern candies.

• Tea Time: Serve alongside coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

• Gift Giving: Wrap in decorative boxes for birthdays or housewarming presents.

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Conclusion

Oklahoma Nut Candy is a simple yet indulgent Southern delight, combining toasted nuts, caramelized sugar, and buttery richness into a treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. By following these detailed steps and tips:

• Toast nuts properly for flavor

• Monitor sugar temperature for perfect texture

• Work quickly while candy is malleable

…you can consistently make crisp, flavorful, and visually appealing Oklahoma Nut Candy that embodies Southern tradition.

This candy is perfect for gifts, holiday celebrations, or everyday indulgence, making it a timeless classic.

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