Oklahoma Nut Candy

 Oklahoma Nut Candy: A Southern Treat Full of Tradition and Crunch

Oklahoma Nut Candy is a beloved Southern delicacy that combines rich history with irresistible flavor. Often passed down through generations, this treat is especially popular during the holiday season but is enjoyed year-round by those who appreciate its sweet, nutty goodness.

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  What is Oklahoma Nut Candy?

At its heart, Oklahoma Nut Candy is a simple, old-fashioned candy made primarily of:

Sugar

Milk (or cream)

Butter

Vanilla

A generous mix of nuts, usually pecans or walnuts

The texture is somewhere between fudge and praline: creamy and melt-in-your-mouth, but packed with the satisfying crunch of roasted nuts. It’s typically cut into squares or dropped by spoonfuls onto wax paper.

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  Traditional Ingredients

Though recipes vary slightly from family to family, a traditional Oklahoma Nut Candy might include:

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts (or a mix of both)

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  How It's Made

The process is similar to making fudge:

1. Cook the sugar and cream over medium heat until it reaches the soft-ball stage (around 235°F / 112°C).

2. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla.

3. Fold in the nuts until fully coated.

4. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper or pour into a greased dish to cool and cut into squares.

Patience is key—the candy must be stirred just enough to get the perfect creamy consistency without becoming grainy.

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 A Candy with Heritage

Oklahoma Nut Candy is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of cultural heritage. You’ll often find it at church gatherings, family reunions, and small-town festivals across Oklahoma and the South. It represents hospitality, tradition, and the simple joy of home cooking.

Many families consider it a “grandma recipe,” lovingly prepared during the holidays and shared in decorative tins with neighbors and friends.

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 Tips for Gifting or Storing

Wrap pieces in wax paper or place them in candy boxes for easy gifting.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Refrigerate if you want to keep it longer, but let it come to room temp before serving for the best texture.

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  Why You'll Love It

Whether you're a fan of old-fashioned sweets or just discovering Southern confections, Oklahoma Nut Candy offers:

A nostalgic flavor

A perfect balance of creamy and crunchy

A simple recipe with pantry staples

It’s a hu

mble candy with a rich story—and once you taste it, it’s easy to see why it’s a Southern favorite.