Mackinac Island Pecan Fudge | 12 Tomatoes
GIVEAWAY: Win a 5-Quart KitchenAid mixer in the color of your choice! →

Mackinac Island Pecan Fudge

A treat from the Great Lakes State!

hearts
When you share or print a 12 Tomatoes recipe,
you're making mealtime meaningful.
100% of the Share to Care sponsor fees fund meals for families in need. Learn More
Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Horizontal 1
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting the charming Mackinac Island, then chances are you’ve had their fudge. You can’t take two steps on their main street without tripping on the fudge shop, I’m not exaggerating. The islanders have been hand-pouring fudge for generations and, while I might be a little biased, I really do think it’s some of the very best stuff you can get your hands on. If you can’t make a trip out the island yourself, no need to worry. Our Mackinac Island Pecan Fudge recipe brings that nostalgic flavor right to your kitchen, no ferry ride required.

Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 1
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team
Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 3
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

With its buttery texture, rich cocoa flavor, and the irresistible crunch of pecans, this fudge captures everything we love about a homemade treat. The process starts with a handful of pantry staples melted together in a heavy saucepan. Butter, two kinds of sugar, and milk come together to form a glossy base. The trick is to stir continuously so every bite turns out silky smooth. After a brief cooling period, cocoa powder and vanilla are added in deepening the flavor while a little powdered sugar adds that signature creamy texture.

Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 6
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team
Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 8
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

When the fudge has thickened, it’s poured out to cool, then gently rolled into a wide log. It’s an old-fashioned technique that not only gives this fudge its signature shape but also makes for easy-to-slice pieces once it’s chilled. The pecans throughout add a nutty crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness for one seriously delicious fudge. Whether you’re gifting it during the holidays, serving it at a gathering, or sneaking a piece with your afternoon coffee, Mackinac Island Pecan Fudge is sure to come a favorite!

Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 14
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team
Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 18
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team
Macinac Island Chocolate Fudge Vertical 11
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

Yield(s): Serves 10-12

15m prep time

50m inactive

4.3
Rated by 18 reviewers

Allergens: Milk, Nuts

hearts
When you share or print a 12 Tomatoes recipe,
you're making mealtime meaningful.
100% of the Share to Care sponsor fees fund meals for families in need. Learn More
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Preparation
  1. Combine butter, milk, salt, brown and white sugars in a heavy pan on medium heat. Mix to combine and bring to a boil and stir continuously for 6 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes, then add vanilla, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until fudge is smooth and thick. Fold in pecans.
  3. Grease a baking sheet with butter, then pour mixture onto the sheet to cool.
  4. When cool enough to handle, use a greased spatula to help roll mixture into a wide log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place in fridge for 45 minutes before slicing.

Recipe adapted from 12tomatoes.com