Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge

There’s something magical about the moment you bite into a piece of fudge — that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess paired with the satisfying crunch of pecans. Now, imagine that richness infused with the unique, slightly spiced sweetness of Dr Pepper. This Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge is indulgent, nostalgic, and full of character, making it a treat worth savoring.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for this fudge came from childhood memories of sipping on an ice-cold Dr Pepper while cracking open pecans with family. The combination of those two flavors was unforgettable, and transforming them into a fudge recipe feels like wrapping up a little piece of home and tradition in every square.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Fudge itself has roots in American candy-making from the late 1800s, becoming a staple at fairs and holiday gatherings. Dr Pepper, with its iconic blend of 23 flavors, was created in the 1880s in Texas, making this pairing a true celebration of Southern tradition. Pecans, of course, are native to the South, which ties everything together in one deliciously regional dessert.

Why You’ll Love Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge

There are plenty of fudge recipes out there, but trust me, this one is a total game-changer.

Versatile: Whether for holidays, potlucks, or gifting, this fudge fits every occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and a can of soda, making it affordable.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in less than an hour with no complicated steps.

Customizable: Add extra toppings like sea salt, white chocolate drizzle, or even dried cherries.

Crowd-Pleasing: The blend of chocolate, Dr Pepper, and pecans always gets rave reviews.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Great for Leftovers: Stores beautifully, and tastes just as good the next day.

Print

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting fudge just right can be a little tricky, but these insider tips will help you nail it every time:

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure your mixture reaches the soft-ball stage.
• Toast the pecans lightly before adding them, which deepens their flavor.
• Line your pan with parchment paper so the fudge lifts out easily.
• Let the fudge cool at room temperature before refrigerating, which keeps the texture smooth.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s get our kitchen arsenal ready:

• Saucepan: To cook the sugar and Dr Pepper mixture.
• Candy Thermometer: Essential for checking the right stage.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining chocolate and marshmallow creme.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring thick mixtures.
• Baking Pan (9×13-inch): To set your fudge.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal and clean slicing.

Ingredients in Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge

What makes this fudge so special is how each ingredient plays its part to create harmony in flavor and texture.

1. Dr Pepper: 1 cup, reduced to intensify its unique spiced sweetness.
2. Granulated Sugar: 3 cups, provides structure and sweetness.
3. Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup, adds richness and creamy mouthfeel.
4. Marshmallow Creme: 1 jar (7 oz), helps with smoothness and prevents crystallization.
5. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 12 oz, the heart of the fudge flavor.
6. Chopped Pecans: 1 ½ cups, for nutty crunch and balance.
7. Salt: ¼ teaspoon, enhances overall flavor.
8. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, rounds out the sweetness with warmth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a little flexibility, here are some handy swaps:

Dr Pepper: Root beer or cola for a similar twist.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate for a bolder flavor.
Pecans: Walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Butter: Margarine as a dairy-free option.

Ingredient Spotlight

Dr Pepper: Known for its blend of 23 flavors, it adds a unique depth that sets this fudge apart from traditional recipes.

Pecans: Their buttery, slightly sweet crunch makes them the perfect nut for fudge.

Instructions for Making Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge

And now comes the fun part — let’s turn these ingredients into a decadent fudge treat.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, reduce the Dr Pepper over medium heat until it measures about ½ cup. Add sugar, butter, and salt, stirring until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Attach a candy thermometer and bring mixture to soft-ball stage (234–240°F).
4. Assemble the Dish: Remove from heat, quickly stir in chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fold in toasted pecans gently, making sure they are evenly distributed.
6. Finishing Touches: Pour mixture into prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let fudge set at room temperature, then cut into squares and savor every bite.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This fudge is all about contrast. The silky, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate is accented by the crunch of pecans. The Dr Pepper reduction weaves in subtle notes of cherry, vanilla, and spice, giving each bite layers of flavor that unfold slowly on your palate.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Little touches can make a world of difference:

• Always reduce the soda first to concentrate the flavor.
• Cut fudge with a hot knife for clean, sharp edges.
• Store pieces separated by wax paper to avoid sticking.

What to Avoid

Even the best cooks can hit a snag, so here’s what to watch for:

• Don’t undercook the sugar mixture, or your fudge won’t set.
• Avoid stirring constantly once boiling begins, as it can cause grainy texture.
• Don’t skip lining the pan, or you’ll struggle to get neat squares.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 squares
Calories per serving: 230

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This fudge is a dream for planning ahead. You can make it several days in advance, and it stays fresh in an airtight container for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. To serve, let thaw at room temperature for the best texture.

How to Serve Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge

This fudge pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even alongside a fruit platter to balance its richness. For parties, arrange squares on a decorative tray, garnished with whole pecans for a polished look.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you find yourself with extra fudge (lucky you!), try:

• Crumbling it over vanilla ice cream.
• Using it as a mix-in for brownies.
• Stirring chunks into homemade milkshakes.

Additional Tips

• Store fudge in single layers with parchment between to prevent sticking.
• For gifting, wrap pieces individually in wax paper.
• Let fudge come to room temperature before serving for the creamiest bite.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation makes all the difference. Try drizzling melted white chocolate over the top before it sets, or sprinkling flaky sea salt for an elegant touch. Cutting pieces into diamond shapes instead of squares also adds flair.

Variations to Try

• Cherry Dr Pepper Fudge: Stir in chopped dried cherries for extra fruitiness.
• Double Chocolate Pecan Fudge: Use both milk and semi-sweet chocolate.
• Spiced Pecan Fudge: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to complement the Dr Pepper notes.
• White Chocolate Dr Pepper Fudge: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier treat.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use diet Dr Pepper?

A1: It’s best to stick with regular Dr Pepper, as the sugar is essential for texture.

Q2: Do I have to use a candy thermometer?

A2: It’s highly recommended, but you can test by dropping a bit of syrup into cold water to see if it forms a soft ball.

Q3: Can I skip the marshmallow creme?

A3: Marshmallow creme helps create smooth fudge, so it’s not recommended to omit it.

Q4: What if I don’t have pecans?

A4: Walnuts, almonds, or even peanuts will work as alternatives.

Q5: How long does the fudge need to set?

A5: It usually takes 2–3 hours at room temperature.

Q6: Can I make this dairy-free?

A6: Yes, by using margarine and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?

A7: Absolutely, just use a larger pan to accommodate the volume.

Q8: How do I cut clean squares?

A8: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping clean between cuts.

Q9: Can I refrigerate the fudge to speed setting?

A9: You can, but room temperature setting yields a smoother texture.

Q10: Is this fudge safe to mail?

A10: Yes, it travels well when wrapped tightly and kept cool.

Conclusion

Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge is more than just a sweet treat, it’s a little bite of Southern tradition with a playful twist. The richness of chocolate, the nuttiness of pecans, and the subtle sparkle of Dr Pepper come together to create a dessert that’s worth every bite. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer, and once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.

Watch how to make a recipe similar to Dr Pepper Pecan Fudge