PECAN LOG CANDY RECIPES

Steps:

• Grease a 15x10x1-in. pan with 2 teaspoons butter; set aside. , In a 2-qt. microwave-safe glass dish, combine sugar and corn syrup. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes or until a candy thermometer reads 238° (soft-ball stage). , Add pecans. Microwave for 4 minutes or until a candy thermometer reads 300° (hard-crack stage). Mixture will be very hot. Vigorously stir in the baking soda, vanilla and remaining butter until blended. , Quickly pour into prepared pan; spread with a metal spatula as thin as possible. Cool completely; break into pieces. Store in an airtight container with waxed paper between layers.

Steps:

• Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with buttered wax paper; set aside.
• Combine corn syrup, water and sugar in small heavy saucepan.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil.
• Wash down side of pan with pastry brush dipped in hot water frequently, to remove sugar crystals.
• Add candy thermometer.
• Continue to cook until mixture reaches the hard-ball stage (255 degrees F).
• Meanwhile, beat egg white and cream of tarter with heavy duty electric mixer, until stiff but not dry.
• Slowly pour hot syrup into egg white, beating constantly.
• Add vanilla extract.
• Beat until candy forms soft peaks and starts to lose its gloss.
• Spoon fondant into the prepared pan.
• Cut into three strips lengthwise, then crosswise in center.
• Freeze until firm.
• Roll into logs.
• Place back in freezer.
• Line another baking sheet with wax paper, set aside.
• Melt caramels with water in small but heavy saucepan over low heat.
• Stir occasionally.
• Arrange pecans on wax paper.
• Working quickly, drop 1 piece of the frozen fondant into melted caramels to coat.
• While still warm, roll in pecans to completely coat the outside.
• Place on prepared baking sheet to set.
• Repeat with remaining fondant pieces.
• Reheat the caramel mixture if it becomes too thick.
• Cut finished logs into 1/2 inch slices.
• Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container between layers of wax paper or freeze for up to three months.