During the holidays the Savoies love to sample their sweets. Mom likes to set out platters of cookies and candies that are both old faithfuls and new inventions. Here’s a candy that features our favorite nut, pecans. I think it will be a welcome addition to this year’s dessert buffet.
by Elizabeth Savoie Dronet, inspired by Southern Living
Ingredients
1 cup chopped pecans – can use more if desired
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter
1/3 cup water
8 oz dark chocolate chips or candy bars broken into small pieces*
Method
- Line a 15- x 10-inch jellyroll pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil; lightly grease foil. Sprinkle with 2/3 cup pecans to within 1 inch of edges.
- Bring sugar, butter, and 1/3 cup water to a boil in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, 12 minutes or until a candy thermometer registers 310° (hard crack stage). Pour over pecans; sprinkle with chocolate. Let stand 30 seconds then spread to cover.
- Quickly sprinkle with remaining 1/3 cup pecans and press larger pieces in gently. Chill 30 minutes. Break up toffee using a mallet or rolling pin if needed. Store in an airtight container.
*You can also use semisweet chocolate chips or a combination of the two.
Savoie Secrets: It's a Family Recipe 