My earliest memories of Oklahoma are tied to the flavors of my aunt’s kitchen, especially during the holidays. She always had a knack for making the simplest things taste extraordinary. One of my absolute favorites was her Oklahoma nut candy.
The aroma of sugar caramelizing and nuts roasting would fill her home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I remember sneaking into the kitchen, hoping for a stolen piece, and she would always oblige with a wink and a smile. It’s a flavor that instantly transports me back to those cherished moments.
That crunchy, sweet, and salty treat wasn’t just candy; it was a symbol of her love and the spirit of Oklahoma. The joy it brought was something I wanted to share, and it’s why I’ve perfected this recipe. You can learn more about other delicious candied treats like this homemade candied pecans recipe, making it easy to recreate nostalgic favorites.
Why you’ll love this Oklahoma Nut Candy
- This Oklahoma nut candy is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple steps.
- The combination of sweet caramel, crunchy nuts, and a hint of salt creates a truly irresistible flavor profile.
- It’s perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holiday season.
- You can easily customize the nuts to your liking, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
- The crunchy texture and satisfying sweetness of this Oklahoma nut candy makes it a great snack any time of day.
- It’s a classic American dessert that evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mixed nuts (pecans, peanuts, walnuts)
- Pinch of sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Oklahoma nut candy makes every moment feel sunny. Prepare your pan by lining an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3
Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage). This will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and mixed nuts. Ensure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.
Step 5
Immediately pour the nut mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top.
Step 6
Let the candy cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch.
Step 7
Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the candy from the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Experiment with different nut combinations to create your perfect Oklahoma nut candy. Consider adding almonds, cashews, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a touch of warmth or spice.
Another variation is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled candy for an extra layer of decadence. White chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate all work wonderfully. Just let the chocolate set completely before cutting into squares.
For a different flavor profile, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. This will give the candy a richer, more molasses-like flavor. Adjust the amount of salt accordingly to balance the sweetness.
Pairings
Oklahoma nut candy is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of beverages. Serve it with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting treat on a chilly day. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the candy perfectly.
For a more indulgent pairing, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream complements the crunchy texture of the candy. It also makes a great addition to a cheese board, adding a sweet and crunchy element to the savory cheeses.
Looking for other sweet treat ideas? You can also find some inspiration for other homemade candies, like this cinnamon rock candy recipe, to satisfy your sweet tooth. Check out this cinnamon rock candy recipe for a delightful and easy-to-make alternative.
Serving ideas
Oklahoma nut candy is perfect for gifting. Wrap individual squares in cellophane bags and tie with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift. They make great stocking stuffers or party favors.
For a more elegant presentation, arrange the candy squares on a decorative platter or tiered serving tray. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch. You can also crumble the candy and use it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or parfaits.
Serve the candy as part of a dessert buffet or as a sweet ending to a holiday meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a sweet snack, Oklahoma nut candy is sure to be a hit.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store your Oklahoma nut candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness and crunch. Properly stored, it will stay good for up to a week. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as the moisture can make the candy sticky.
If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider adding a silica gel packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture. This will help prevent the candy from becoming soft. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to protect from air exposure.
For longer storage, you can freeze the candy. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen candy can last for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make-ahead
Oklahoma nut candy can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy schedules or holiday preparations. You can prepare the candy up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Alternatively, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Measure out the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water and store them in a sealed container. Chop the nuts and store them in a separate bag. When you’re ready to make the candy, simply combine the ingredients and follow the recipe.
For a quick and easy dessert, you can also make a large batch of the candy and freeze it in individual portions. This way, you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand whenever you need it. Just remember to thaw it completely before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Common mistakes when making Oklahoma Nut Candy
- Not using a candy thermometer: A candy thermometer is essential for ensuring the candy reaches the hard-crack stage. Without it, you risk either undercooking the candy (resulting in a soft, sticky mess) or overcooking it (resulting in a burnt, bitter taste).
- Stirring the mixture after the sugar has dissolved: Stirring the mixture after the sugar has dissolved can cause sugar crystals to form, resulting in a grainy texture. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture cook undisturbed until it reaches the correct temperature.
- Not spreading the mixture quickly enough: Once the nuts are added, the mixture will start to harden quickly. Be sure to pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly as quickly as possible.
- Using old or stale nuts: Fresh, high-quality nuts are essential for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using nuts that are past their expiration date or that have been stored improperly, as they can taste rancid.
- Not greasing the parchment paper: Even though the pan is lined with parchment paper, it’s important to lightly grease the paper to prevent the candy from sticking. This will make it easier to remove the candy from the pan and cut it into squares.
Final notes
Oklahoma nut candy is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to cherished memories and a taste of home. Don’t be intimidated by the candy-making process – it’s simpler than you think!
With a little patience and attention to detail, you can create a delicious and impressive treat that everyone will love. Remember to use a candy thermometer for best results and don’t be afraid to experiment with different nut combinations to find your perfect blend.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create some sweet memories of your own with this classic Oklahoma nut candy. You might just find that it becomes a new family favorite!
Loved this Oklahoma Nut Candy? Try these next
- Homemade Candied Pecans
- Cinnamon Rock Candy Recipe
- Peanut Brittle
- Salted Caramel Fudge
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Oklahoma Nut Candy
A crunchy, sweet, and salty treat that captures the essence of Oklahoma’s flavors. This nut candy is perfect for gifting, snacking, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mixed nuts (pecans, peanuts, walnuts)
- Pinch of sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your pan by lining an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage). This will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and mixed nuts. Ensure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.
- Immediately pour the nut mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top.
- Let the candy cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the candy from the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
Store the Oklahoma Nut Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the candy reaches the hard-crack stage. You can customize the nuts to your liking. Pecans, peanuts, and walnuts are traditional, but almonds or cashews would also work well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg