Delicious Coconut Pecan Candy

Indulge in this sweet and chewy Coconut Pecan Candy, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. With a delightful combination of coconut and pecans, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1 stick real butter
• 2 cups shredded coconut
• 1-2 cups pecans (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet or pan with wax or parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter.
3. Stir the mixture on medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
4. Without stirring, let the mixture boil for 5 minutes or until it reaches 235°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Add the shredded coconut and pecans, mixing well.
7. Let the mixture sit off heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken.
8. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the wax paper-lined baking sheets, or pour it into a pan to cut into squares.
9. Allow the candy to cool completely and store in layers with wax paper in between to prevent sticking.
10. If using as frosting, let it cool while stirring occasionally until it thickens and becomes spreadable, perfect for layering on cakes.

Nutritional Information

N/A

Understanding the Magic of Candy Making

Candy making can seem daunting, but once you get the hang of the basics, it becomes a rewarding kitchen experience. The key to mastering this craft lies in understanding the role of sugar and temperature. As you boil the sugar mixture, it goes through different stages, each of which corresponds to a specific texture. For our Coconut Pecan Candy, reaching the soft ball stage at 235°F is crucial; this ensures that your candy will be chewy yet firm enough to hold its shape. Using a reliable candy thermometer is essential, as it helps you monitor the exact temperature without guesswork.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Pecan Candy

The texture of your Coconut Pecan Candy can be influenced by several factors, including the humidity of your kitchen and the precision of your measurements. Make sure to use a heavy-bottom saucepan to prevent scorching, as sugar can easily burn. Additionally, avoid stirring the mixture while it s boiling; this could lead to crystallization, resulting in a grainy texture instead of the smooth, chewy consistency we desire. Once you ve removed it from the heat, be sure to stir in the vanilla quickly to infuse that wonderful flavor without losing any heat from the mixture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your delicious Coconut Pecan Candy has cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining its delightful texture and flavor. Store the candy in an airtight container, layering it with wax paper to prevent sticking. This treat can last for several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place. Whether you re serving it as a sweet snack or using it as a frosting on your favorite cake, this candy is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Just be prepared for it to vanish quickly, as its sweet, nutty flavor is undeniably addictive!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened shredded coconut for a sweeter candy. Just keep in mind that this will increase the overall sweetness of your Coconut Pecan Candy.

Is there a substitute for corn syrup?

If you re looking to avoid corn syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. However, this might alter the flavor slightly, giving it a unique twist!

How can I make this candy more chocolatey?

For a chocolate twist, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled candy or mixing in some cocoa powder when combining the coconut and pecans. This will add a rich flavor that complements the sweetness.

Practical Cooking Tips and Tricks

To ensure your Coconut Pecan Candy turns out perfectly every time, here are some practical tips: First, always measure your ingredients accurately. Baking and candy-making are precise sciences, and even a small difference can change the outcome. Second, invest in a quality candy thermometer to avoid guesswork when checking temperatures. Third, if you live in a humid environment, consider cooking the candy on a drier day, as excess moisture can affect the consistency. Lastly, if you want to add a little extra flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the mixture; this enhances their nuttiness and brings a deeper flavor to your candy.