Ingredients:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or your favorite nuts)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pan:
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help you remove the candy once it’s set.
2. Cook the caramel:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches a soft ball stage (about 240°F or 115°C on a candy thermometer).
3. Add the nuts:
Stir in the chopped nuts and salt. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the caramel.
4. Pour into the pan:
Pour the caramel and nut mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
5. Let it cool:
Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature. Once it has set and firmed up, cut it into small squares.
6. Optional chocolate drizzle:
If you’d like to add a chocolate layer, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled candy before cutting it into squares.
7. Serve and enjoy:
Once the candy has cooled and the chocolate drizzle has hardened, cut it into small squares and enjoy your homemade Oklahoma Nut Candy!