Oklahoma Nut Candy – The Old-Fashioned Sweet That Never Needed an Oven
Some candies feel fancy. Oklahoma nut candy feels familiar — the kind of treat that showed up in wax paper squares at church socials, holiday tins, and grandma’s kitchen counter.
It’s rich, creamy, and packed with crunchy nuts, with a soft fudge-like texture that melts slowly as you eat it. No baking. No thermometer. Just simple pantry ingredients cooked gently and poured to set. It’s the kind of candy you make once and immediately understand why it’s been passed down for generations.
Oklahoma Nut Candy
Ingredients
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup brown sugar (packed)
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½ cup whole milk
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½ cup unsalted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped nuts (pecans are traditional; walnuts work too)
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
1) Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
2) Cook the Candy Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, butter, and salt.
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly so it doesn’t scorch.
3) Simmer
Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and let it boil gently for 5–6 minutes, stirring often.
The mixture should thicken slightly and look glossy.
4) Finish
Remove from heat.
Stir in vanilla and chopped nuts.
5) Set
Pour mixture into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Let cool at room temperature 2–3 hours, until fully set.
Cut into small squares.
Why This Candy Works
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Two sugars = deep caramel flavor
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Milk + butter create creamy texture
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Nuts add crunch and balance sweetness
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No oven, no thermometer, no stress
It’s straightforward candy-making the old-fashioned way.
Tips for Perfect Oklahoma Nut Candy
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Stir constantly while boiling to prevent burning
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Don’t overcook — it should stay soft, not hard
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Use fresh nuts for best flavor
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Cut into small pieces (it’s rich!)
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Let it cool fully before slicing
Easy Variations
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Pecan classic: use only pecans
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Mixed nuts: pecans + walnuts
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Chocolate drizzle: drizzle melted chocolate on top
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Sea salt finish: sprinkle flaky salt before setting
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Holiday spice: add a pinch of cinnamon
Serving Ideas
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Wrapped in wax paper for gifting
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Added to holiday cookie trays
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Served with coffee
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Cut into bite-sized squares for potlucks
FAQ – Oklahoma Nut Candy
Is this fudge?
It’s similar, but softer and more caramel-forward than traditional fudge.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No — this recipe relies on timing and texture, not temperature.
How long does it last?
Store airtight at room temperature up to 1 week, or refrigerate up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in a sealed container up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
