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Oklahoma Nut Candy – Old-Fashioned Southern Sweet Treat

If you love old-fashioned homemade candy, then this Oklahoma Nut Candy recipe is a must-try! Rich, buttery, and loaded with crunchy pecans or walnuts, this candy is smooth, creamy, and melts in your mouth. This Southern-inspired sweet is perfect for the holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a nostalgic treat.

With just a few pantry staples like sugar, cream, butter, and nuts, you can whip up a batch of this irresistible candy right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Oklahoma Nut Candy

Simple Ingredients – No hard-to-find items, just sugar, cream, butter, and nuts.
Old-Fashioned Flavor – A classic Southern-style candy that tastes like grandma’s kitchen.
Perfect for Gifting – Wrap it up in cellophane bags or boxes for homemade holiday gifts.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Keeps well at room temperature for several days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups heavy cream
1 ½ cups walnuts or pecans (chopped)
½ cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon baking soda
6 cups sugar, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. This will prevent the candy from sticking.

Step 2: Melt the First Sugar

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 2 cups of sugar over low heat.
Stir frequently until the sugar liquefies completely. This process takes about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture

While the first sugar is melting, combine the remaining 4 cups of sugar and heavy cream in a large Dutch oven or saucepan.
Simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Both Sugars

Once the first sugar is fully melted, carefully pour it into the large saucepan with the cream mixture.
Stir continuously until well blended.

Step 5: Cook to Soft-Ball Stage

Increase the heat to medium.
Cook the mixture until it reaches 244°F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).

Step 6: Add Baking Soda

Remove the pan from the heat.
Stir in the baking soda until completely dissolved.

Step 7: Add Flavor & Butter

Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Rest the Mixture

Let the candy mixture rest for 20 minutes. This helps it set properly before adding the nuts.

Step 9: Stir in the Nuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans until the mixture loses its shine.
Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 10: Cool & Cut

Allow the candy to cool for 1–2 hours (or overnight).
Slice into bite-sized squares and enjoy!

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap in wax paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Recipe Card

Oklahoma Nut Candy

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 24 squares
Category: Dessert / Candy
Cuisine: Southern / American

This old-fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy recipe is creamy, buttery, and filled with crunchy nuts. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a sweet treat anytime!

Tips & Variations

Nut Options: Swap pecans for walnuts, or use a mix of both for extra flavor.
Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
Gift Idea: Wrap cooled candy in wax paper squares for a classic homemade candy presentation.

This Oklahoma Nut Candy recipe is a timeless treat that combines rich caramelized sugar, buttery cream, and crunchy nuts. Make a batch today and enjoy a true taste of Southern tradition!