Holiday Pecan Logs

Holiday Pecan Logs Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make Snack Food

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 16

Introduction

Holiday Pecan Logs are a delicious and festive treat that are perfect for the holiday season. These sweet and nutty logs are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.

History

The recipe for Holiday Pecan Logs has been a holiday favorite for many years. These sweet treats are often enjoyed during the Christmas season and are a popular gift to give to friends and family.

Ingredients

2 tsp + 0.5 cup softened butter (no substitutes)
3.75 cup confectioners' sugar
0.5 cup instant nonfat dry milk powder
0.5 cup sugar
0.5 cup light corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 package (14 oz (397 g)) caramels
1 tbsp milk or half and half
2 cup chopped pecans

How to prepare

Butter an 8-inch square pan with 2 tsp of butter; set aside.
Combine confectioners' sugar and milk powder; set aside.
In a heavy saucepan, combine 0.5 cup of butter, sugar, and corn syrup until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
Stir in the confectioners' sugar mixture, about a third at a time, until blended.
Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
Continue stirring until the mixture mounds slightly when dropped from a spoon.
Spread the mixture into the prepared pan. Let it cool.
Cut the candy into four strips; then cut each strip in half.
Shape each piece into a log; wrap it in waxed paper and twist the ends.
Freeze or refrigerate until firm.
In a microwave or heavy saucepan, melt the caramels and milk, stirring often.
Roll the logs in the caramel mixture, then in pecans. Wrap them in waxed paper.
Store at room temperature in airtight containers.
Cut into slices with a serrated knife.

Variations

For a different flavor, try using different nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the logs for a sweet and salty combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use softened butter for the best texture in the candy mixture.

- When cutting the candy into strips, use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts.

- Rolling the logs in the caramel mixture can be a bit messy, so be sure to have a clean work surface and waxed paper ready.

Serving Suggestions

Holiday Pecan Logs are perfect for serving at holiday parties or as a special treat for yourself. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Holiday Pecan Logs is to cook the candy mixture until it reaches the right consistency. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pecans, you can use any other type of nut that you prefer. You can also use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Holiday Pecan Logs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Presentation Ideas

Holiday Pecan Logs can be wrapped in festive waxed paper or placed in a decorative tin for gift-giving. They can also be served on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Holiday Pecan Logs pair well with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. They can also be enjoyed with a glass of milk or eggnog.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Holiday Pecan Logs can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for longer storage. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Holiday Pecan Logs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Holiday Pecan Logs contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Holiday Pecan Logs contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Holiday Pecan Logs contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Holiday Pecan Logs are a good source of calcium and iron.

Alergens

Holiday Pecan Logs contain dairy and nuts.

Summary

Holiday Pecan Logs are a sweet and indulgent treat that are perfect for the holiday season. While they are high in calories and fat, they are a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Holiday Pecan Logs are a delicious and festive treat that are perfect for the holiday season. With a sweet caramel coating and crunchy pecans, these logs are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy them as a special treat or give them as a gift to spread holiday cheer.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning the ins and outs of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques. One day, as we were preparing for the holiday season, she pulled out an old, tattered recipe card from her collection. It was for Holiday Pecan Logs.

I watched in awe as my grandmother expertly mixed together the ingredients for the pecan logs. She explained to me the importance of using high-quality pecans and how to toast them just right to bring out their rich flavor. As the sweet aroma of the pecans filled the kitchen, I could hardly contain my excitement.

Once the pecans were toasted to perfection, my grandmother showed me how to make the creamy filling that would hold the logs together. She added a touch of vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, giving the filling a warm, comforting flavor that would perfectly complement the nutty pecans.

Next came the most fun part – shaping the logs. My grandmother and I carefully rolled the pecan mixture into long, thin logs, then coated them in a layer of creamy white chocolate. As we worked, we chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company and the joy of creating something delicious together.

After the logs had set and the chocolate had hardened, my grandmother sliced them into bite-sized pieces and arranged them on a platter. The finished pecan logs were a sight to behold – smooth white chocolate coating, dotted with crunchy pecans and filled with a sweet, creamy filling. I couldn't wait to taste them.

When I finally took my first bite, I was transported to a world of rich, nutty flavors and sweet, creamy goodness. The Holiday Pecan Logs were a perfect combination of textures and tastes, a true delight for the senses. My grandmother beamed with pride as she watched me savor each bite, knowing that she had passed down a cherished recipe to her granddaughter.

From that day on, Holiday Pecan Logs became a staple in our holiday baking repertoire. Every year, my grandmother and I would gather in the kitchen, armed with our trusty recipe card and a mountain of pecans, to create these delicious treats for our family and friends. The tradition continued as I grew older, eventually becoming a cherished memory that I hold dear to this day.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Holiday Pecan Logs to my own grandchildren, I think back on that happy day in my grandmother's kitchen. I remember the warmth of her smile, the joy in her eyes, and the love that went into every batch of pecan logs we made together. And I am grateful for the gift of cooking that she gave me – a gift that has brought me so much happiness and connected me to my family in a way that only food can.