Sweet, buttery, and delightfully crunchy — this Old-Fashioned Oklahoma Nut Candy is a nostalgic treat that takes you straight back to grandma’s kitchen. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, and mixed nuts, this candy has a melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich caramel flavor that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for holidays, gift boxes, or just a cozy night with coffee!
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups mixed nuts (pecans, walnuts, or peanuts work best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare your pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly butter it. Set aside.
- Cook the syrup: In a large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the nuts: Stir in the nuts and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 290°F (hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This takes about 15–20 minutes.
- Add butter and vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in butter and vanilla.
- Add baking soda: Stir in the baking soda — the mixture will foam up slightly.
- Pour and spread: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Cool completely: Let the candy cool for about 30 minutes, then break into pieces.
Pro Tips
- Use a candy thermometer for best results — it ensures perfect texture every time.
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of cinnamon or maple extract with the vanilla.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks — keep away from humidity to stay crisp.
- Great for gifting! Wrap pieces in wax paper or pack them in small tins for a homemade holiday touch.
