There’s something about a pecan log roll that instantly brings comfort. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of candy shops and roadside diners. Maybe it’s the way creamy nougat meets buttery caramel and crunchy toasted pecans. Either way, this classic treat is a favorite for a reason. It’s sweet without being cloying, soft yet crunchy, and downright addictive.
Homemade pecan log rolls beat the store-bought ones every time. You control the sweetness, the quality of the ingredients, and the level of pecan coverage. The result is a candy roll that’s soft, rich, and full of texture. It feels indulgent but familiar—like the kind of dessert your grandma made, but elevated.
These aren’t difficult to make, but they do require some patience. The nougat is cooked gently and then chilled to form a base. Once firm, it gets rolled in a luscious caramel layer before being packed in chopped toasted pecans. The layering process is straightforward, but each component needs time to set.
What makes this version extra special is the balance. The nougat is fluffy, not chewy. The caramel is soft, not sticky. And the pecans are toasted just enough to bring out their natural richness. Together, it’s a candy experience that satisfies every craving.
These pecan log rolls make amazing holiday gifts. Wrap them in wax paper or cellophane, tie them up with ribbon, and you’ve got a homemade present that feels gourmet. They also hold up well at room temperature for days.
If you’re looking for a make-ahead treat, this is it. The rolls keep beautifully in the fridge or freezer, ready to slice or snack on. They’re also endlessly customizable—swap in almonds or cashews, or drizzle with dark chocolate for a twist.
The joy is in the contrast: the lightness of the nougat, the richness of the caramel, and the crunch of the pecans. Each bite is a mix of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
You don’t need candy thermometers or complicated tools. A few bowls, a saucepan, and some parchment are enough to make something truly special.
Whether you grew up eating these or are discovering them for the first time, pecan log rolls are a retro treat worth revisiting. They’re satisfying, gift-worthy, and surprisingly easy to make.
Servings: Makes 6 log rolls
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cooling/Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours
Ingredients:
Nougat Layer:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Caramel Layer:
- 20 soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, and evaporated milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the nougat dough for 1 hour until firm enough to shape.
- Divide into 6 equal portions and roll into log shapes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Use a fork to dip each nougat log into the melted caramel, letting the excess drip off.
- Roll in toasted pecans, pressing lightly to coat.
- Place on parchment and refrigerate at least 1 hour to set.
Tips:
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet or oven to deepen their flavor.
- If caramel thickens too much, reheat gently.
- Use food-safe gloves to help with shaping and dipping.
- Slice into coins for serving or snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This is candy-making made simple. These pecan log rolls have just the right mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy. They look impressive, taste nostalgic, and store well for gifting or personal treats.
Homemade pecan log rolls combine soft nougat, rich caramel, and crunchy toasted pecans in a candy-shop classic you can make in your own kitchen.
