Oklahoma Nut Candy

Ingredients for Oklahoma Nut Candy

• 6 cups sugar, divided
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts or pecans

How to Make Oklahoma Nut Candy

1. Prepare the pan. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Melt part of the sugar. In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 2 cups of sugar. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar fully melts and becomes smooth, about 20 minutes.

3. Start the cream mixture. While the sugar is melting, combine the remaining 4 cups of sugar and heavy cream in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Keep the heat on low, stirring occasionally, and let it gently simmer until the sugar in the small pan is completely melted.

4. Combine carefully. With constant stirring, slowly pour the melted sugar from the small saucepan into the larger pot.

5. Cook to softball stage. Increase heat to medium and cook until the candy reaches 244°F (softball stage) on a candy thermometer.

6. Add baking soda. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the baking soda until fully blended.

7. Finish with butter and vanilla. Add the butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture looks glossy and smooth.

8. Rest the candy. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 20 minutes.

9. Stir in nuts. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans, stirring until the mixture thickens and the shine begins to fade.

10. Set and cool. Pour into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Allow to cool for 1–2 hours, or leave it overnight for best results.

11. Slice and serve. Cut into small squares and serve.