Oklahoma Nut Candy: A Southern Treat Full of Tradition and Crunch
There’s something magical about Southern sweets — the kind of recipes that get passed down through generations, wrapped in handwritten notes and sweet memories. Oklahoma Nut Candy is one of those treasures. It’s simple, nostalgic, and incredibly delicious, with the perfect blend of creamy sweetness and crunchy texture.
Whether you grew up in Oklahoma or just love old-fashioned Southern candy, this recipe captures the heart of homemade goodness. It’s the kind of treat you’ll find at family reunions, church potlucks, and Christmas cookie trays — a humble little square that delivers a big taste of tradition.
🍬 What Is Oklahoma Nut Candy?
Oklahoma Nut Candy is a rich, fudge-like candy packed with chopped pecans (or any favorite nut), sugar, butter, and marshmallows. It’s a classic example of “make-do” Southern cooking — using basic pantry staples to create something extraordinary.
The texture is creamy but firm, with a satisfying crunch from the nuts. It tastes like a cross between divinity and fudge, but without the tricky candy thermometer or hard-to-master technique. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaking a piece for yourself.
📝 Ingredients
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 cup evaporated milk
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cups mini marshmallows
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 to 2 ½ cups chopped pecans (or walnuts)
👩🍳 How to Make Oklahoma Nut Candy
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Prep Your Dish:
Grease or line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Set aside. -
Cook the Base:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. -
Simmer and Stir:
Let it boil for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. Remove from heat. -
Add Marshmallows and Flavoring:
Stir in the marshmallows and vanilla extract. Mix until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. -
Fold in the Nuts:
Stir in the chopped nuts until well coated. -
Pour and Set:
Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature until fully set (about 2–3 hours). -
Cut and Serve:
Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
🥄 Tips and Variations
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Swap the nuts: Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds work well too.
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Make it festive: Stir in chopped red and green candied cherries for a holiday twist.
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Double the batch: This recipe doubles easily for a 9x13-inch pan — perfect for sharing.
🎁 Perfect for Gifting
One of the best things about Oklahoma Nut Candy is how well it keeps and travels. Wrap squares in wax paper or place them in small tins for a thoughtful homemade gift. They make wonderful treats for:
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Holiday care packages
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Teacher appreciation gifts
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Bake sales
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Church socials
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Family reunions
❤️ A Sweet Taste of Southern Tradition
Every bite of Oklahoma Nut Candy tells a story — of kitchens filled with laughter, grandmas stirring candy on the stove, and handwritten recipe cards smudged with flour and love. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of tradition that connects generations.
So whether you’re making this for the first time or bringing back a childhood favorite, take your time and enjoy the process. This Southern treat is simple, sweet, and full of crunch — just the way it should be.
Have a variation or family twist on Oklahoma Nut Candy? Share it in the comments — because like all great Southern recipes, this one only gets better when it's shared.
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