Oklahoma Nut Candy (Old-Fashioned Recipe)
About Oklahoma Nut Candy
Oklahoma Nut Candy is a simple, homemade candy made with sugar, milk, butter, and plenty of nuts—usually peanuts or pecans. It has a texture similar to soft praline or fudge and is known for its deep caramel flavor and satisfying crunch. This recipe has been passed down through generations and remains a favorite for gifting and special occasions.
Prep & Cooking Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20–25 minutes
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Cooling time: 30 minutes
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Total time: ~1 hour
Ingredients (Makes about 20 pieces)
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 cup whole milk
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups roasted peanuts or chopped pecans
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Have a spoon ready—this candy sets quickly once finished.
Step 2: Cook the Candy Base
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In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar and milk.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thick
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Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 15–20 minutes.
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The mixture will thicken and turn a light caramel color.
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Test by dropping a small amount into cold water—it should form a soft ball.
Step 4: Add Butter, Vanilla, and Nuts
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Remove saucepan from heat.
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Stir in butter, vanilla extract, salt, and nuts quickly and thoroughly.
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The mixture will begin to firm up as you stir.
Step 5: Drop & Cool
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Spoon candy onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds.
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Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, or until set.
Tips for Perfect Oklahoma Nut Candy
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Use a heavy saucepan to prevent burning.
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Stir constantly during cooking to avoid scorching.
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Work quickly once nuts are added—the candy sets fast.
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Roasted nuts add deeper flavor and better texture.
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If candy turns grainy, add 1–2 tbsp warm milk and stir gently.
Variations
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Chocolate Nut Candy: Stir in ¼ cup cocoa powder before cooking
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Mixed Nuts: Use a blend of peanuts, pecans, and walnuts
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Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla with maple extract
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Coconut Addition: Add ½ cup shredded coconut with the nuts
Storage
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days
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Layer pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking
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Avoid humidity to keep texture firm
Serving & Gifting Ideas
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Serve with coffee or tea
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Wrap individual pieces in wax paper for gifts
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Add to holiday candy trays
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Include in homemade gift baskets
Why This Candy Is So Loved
Oklahoma Nut Candy is cherished for its simplicity and nostalgia. With just a few pantry ingredients, it delivers rich flavor, satisfying crunch, and that unmistakable homemade taste that store-bought candy can’t match.
Final Thoughts
This Oklahoma Nut Candy recipe is a true classic—easy to make, deeply flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or discovering it for the first time, this candy is sure to become a favorite.