Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs Recipe

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If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that captures the warmth of family gatherings and the magic of homemade sweets, look no further than Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs Recipe. This delightful dessert combines the creamy richness of buttery caramel with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, wrapped around a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth filling. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors that instantly transport you back to cozy afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, making it a true standout at any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet key ingredients will set you up for success in recreating this beloved family favorite. Each component plays a crucial role in building the luscious texture, deep flavors, and irresistible appearance that make this recipe unforgettable.

• ½ cup salted butter: Adds creamy richness and a subtle savory depth to balance the sweetness.
• ½ cup light corn syrup: Ensures a smooth, glossy caramel consistency and prevents crystallization.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps develop the caramel base when heated.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Creates the thick, creamy filling with a delicate sweetness and smooth texture.
• ½ cup powdered milk: Enhances creaminess and adds a gentle dairy flavor to the filling.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Injects warm aroma and depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
• 16 ounces caramels (1 and ½ bags): The luscious coating that binds the logs and adds gooey caramel goodness.
• 4 and ½ tablespoons milk: Helps melt the caramels evenly for a silky dipping sauce.
• 4 cups chopped pecans: Toasty crunch that coats the logs, adding delightful texture and nutty richness.

How to Make Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sweeteners

Start by spraying a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray; this will make it easy to press and remove the filling later. In a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, combine the salted butter, light corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the butter fully melts and all the ingredients meld together into a uniform mixture. Keep stirring patiently until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. This simmering process enriches the base of the filling and ensures the right texture.

Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients and Flavoring

Remove the pot from heat, then quickly stir in the powdered sugar, powdered milk, and vanilla extract. This transforms the hot syrup into a thick, creamy paste that’s the heart of the logs. The powdered sugar and milk give the filling a tender crumbly texture once chilled, while the vanilla adds a comforting note that ties everything together perfectly.

Step 3: Press and Chill the Filling

Transfer the thickened mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for shaping your logs. Allow the filling to cool at room temperature until it’s just cool to the touch, about 30 minutes. Chilling at this stage firms up the dough, making it much easier to cut and roll into logs.

Step 4: Cut and Roll the Logs

Using a sharp knife, slice the filling into four equal strips lengthwise, then make a center cut creating eight portions in total. Place one portion at a time on parchment paper and gently roll it into a log shape. Working with parchment helps prevent sticking and gives you a smooth, even cylinder for dipping. Repeat this for each piece and line them up seam side down on a sheet tray. Place the tray in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours until the logs are frozen solid and easy to handle.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Coating and Pecans

While your logs chill, melt the caramels and milk in a double boiler over medium heat. Stir constantly until the caramel mixture is silky and smooth—this creates the perfect sticky coating for your logs. Meanwhile, pour the chopped pecans into a shallow bowl, ready to coat the caramel-dipped logs.

Step 6: Dip and Coat the Logs

Working carefully, dip each frozen log into the warm caramel, ensuring it’s fully coated, then let any extra drip off. Immediately roll the caramel-coated log in the chopped pecans, pressing lightly to secure an even nutty crust. This part can be a bit tricky, but take your time—each log will look like a little golden treasure coated in crunchy pecan goodness. Place the finished logs on a parchment-lined sheet tray as you work your way through all eight.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Finally, cut the coated logs into half-inch thick slices. Serve these delightful bites immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of creamy filling, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans in every mouthful.

How to Serve Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of your sliced logs to heighten the caramel’s sweetness with a subtle salty punch. Freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate also add an unexpected gourmet twist that pairs beautifully with the pecan crunch.

Side Dishes

These logs shine best alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance their richness. For a holiday spread, serve them on a dessert platter with fresh berries or sliced apples for a fresh, fruity contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine for charming gift boxes. You can also stack the logs in a festive jar layered with pecans and caramel drizzles for a make-ahead party favor. Serving these on a slate board with seasonal decorations makes a stunning centerpiece that guests won’t stop talking about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover caramel pecan logs keep best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They hold their shape and flavor nicely for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat for busy days or surprise visitors.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the uncut logs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The logs freeze well for up to three months without losing their dreamy texture or flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before dipping and coating.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the logs warm, gently microwave slices for 10 to 15 seconds or warm the whole log briefly in a low-temperature oven. This softens the caramel and brings out the deep, buttery aroma without melting the pecan coating entirely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are excellent alternatives that offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Just chop them to a similar size and toast lightly for the best results.

Is it necessary to freeze the logs before dipping in caramel?

Freezing helps the logs hold their shape and makes dipping easier because the filling is firm. Skipping this step could result in softer logs that are harder to coat neatly, but if you’re careful, you can dip them while chilled in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe without powdered milk?

Powdered milk adds creaminess and a subtle dairy depth to the filling, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can try substituting with an equal amount of finely ground almond flour or coconut flour, though the texture will be slightly different.

What’s the best way to melt caramels without burning them?

Using a double boiler method is perfect because it heats gently and prevents scorching. Stir the caramels constantly and keep the heat moderate to ensure a smooth, creamy melt every time.

Can these logs be made vegan or dairy-free?

With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, dairy-free powdered milk alternatives, and vegan caramels, you can create a version suitable for vegan diets. Keep in mind these substitutions may impact texture and flavor slightly but can still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, making Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs Recipe feels like bringing a piece of family tradition and comfort into your own kitchen. From the buttery filling to the decadent caramel coating and crunchy pecan exterior, each step is a labor of love worth every bit of effort. I truly encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll not only end up with a scrumptious dessert but also create memories as sweet as the treats themselves.

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