Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log: A No-Bake Holiday Classic

Few treats are as nostalgic and effortlessly delicious as Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log – a sweet, nutty, and chewy delight that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or satisfying a dessert craving. With just three ingredients and no baking required, this old-fashioned candy comes together in about an hour but tastes like it took all day to make.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Log

1. Unbelievably Simple Yet Impressive
   With only marshmallow cream, caramel, and pecans, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest combinations yield the most delicious results. The contrast between the fluffy marshmallow center, gooey caramel coating, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect bite every time.
2. Budget-Friendly Homemade Candy
   Store-bought pecan logs can be expensive, especially during the holidays. Making your own means you can create twice as much for the same price, with the added bonus of controlling the quality of ingredients.
3. Endlessly Customizable
   While the classic version is perfect as-is, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for experimentation. Try dipping slices in chocolate, sprinkling with sea salt, or mixing different nuts for your own signature version.

Ingredients for Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Log

Makes 12-16 slices

Main Components:

• 1 jar (7 oz/200g) marshmallow cream (marshmallow fluff)
• 1 bag (11 oz/300g) caramel candies, unwrapped
• 2 cups (250g) finely chopped pecans

Optional Additions:

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (mixed into marshmallow)
• Pinch of sea salt (sprinkled on caramel)
• 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chips (for drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Work Area

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat
• Spread chopped pecans on a large plate or shallow dish
• Have a spatula and clean hands ready for shaping

Pro Tip: Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking when shaping the log.

2. Shape the Marshmallow Center

• Scoop marshmallow cream onto prepared parchment
• Using damp hands or a greased spatula, shape into an 8-10 inch log
• Freeze for 15-20 minutes until firm but not frozen solid

Why This Matters: The brief freeze helps the marshmallow hold its shape when coating with warm caramel.

3. Melt the Caramel

• Place unwrapped caramels in a microwave-safe bowl
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth (about 2 minutes total)
• Let cool 2-3 minutes until warm but not piping hot

Alternative Method: Use a double boiler for more controlled melting if you’re concerned about burning.

4. Coat the Log

• Remove marshmallow log from freezer
• Using a spatula or butter knife, spread melted caramel evenly over entire surface
• Work quickly but carefully to cover completely

Troubleshooting: If caramel becomes too thick, microwave for 5-10 seconds to loosen.

5. Roll in Pecans

• Immediately roll caramel-coated log in chopped pecans
• Gently press nuts into any bare spots
• Return to parchment-lined sheet

Presentation Tip: For extra elegance, reserve some whole pecans to press along the top before chilling.

6. Chill and Slice

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set completely
• Using a sharp knife, slice into 1/2-inch rounds
• Wipe knife between cuts for clean slices

Serving Suggestion: Arrange slices on a platter with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

What to Serve With Pecan Log

Beverage Pairings:

• Coffee: The bitterness balances the sweetness
• Dessert Wines: Try a tawny port or late harvest riesling
• Spiced Cider: Perfect for holiday gatherings

Complementary Desserts:

• Dark Chocolate Truffles (for a dessert platter)
• Vanilla ice cream (for an à la mode treat)
• Fresh fruit like pears or apples (cuts the richness)

Occasions:

• Holiday cookie exchanges
• Gift boxes for neighbors
• After-dinner treat with tea

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pecan Log

1. Nut Preparation:
   • Toast pecans at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before chopping for deeper flavor
   • For uniform texture, pulse nuts in a food processor until finely chopped but not powdery
2. Caramel Consistency:
   • If caramel becomes too thick, add 1 tsp of heavy cream or milk
   • For a softer set, use homemade caramel sauce instead of candies
3. Storage Solutions:
   • Wrap unsliced log tightly in wax paper before refrigerating to prevent drying
   • For longer storage, freeze whole log up to 1 month (thaw in fridge before slicing)
4. Creative Variations:
   • Chocolate-Dipped: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips and dip half of each slice
   • Spiced Version: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon to the pecans
   • Salty-Sweet: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over caramel before adding pecans

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers
• Will keep for up to 1 week
• Best served at room temperature for ideal texture

Freezing:

• Wrap whole log tightly in plastic wrap, then foil
• Freeze for up to 1 month
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before slicing

Gifting Ideas:

• Wrap individual slices in wax paper tied with twine
• Package whole log in a decorative tin lined with parchment
• Include reheating instructions if giving frozen

Healthier Adaptations

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily modified:

• Gluten-Free: Use certified GF caramels (most are naturally GF)
• Lower Sugar: Try unrefined sweeteners in homemade caramel
• Nut-Free: Substitute toasted coconut or sunflower seeds for pecans

The History Behind This Classic Treat

The pecan log has its roots in the American South, where pecans grow abundantly. Originally developed as a way to preserve nuts and create shelf-stable sweets, this confection became particularly popular during the mid-20th century as a homemade holiday gift. The three-ingredient version represents a simplified take on more elaborate recipes that might include multiple layers or dipping in chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use homemade marshmallow instead of fluff?
A: Absolutely! About 2 cups of homemade marshmallow works perfectly.

Q: My caramel won’t stick to the marshmallow – help!
A: Make sure your marshmallow log is cold but not frozen solid, and that the caramel is warm but not hot.

Q: How far in advance can I make this?
A: It keeps beautifully for up to a week refrigerated, or can be frozen for longer storage.

Q: Can I use other nuts?
A: Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios make delicious variations.

Final Thoughts

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log proves that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this effortless candy delivers all the flavor and nostalgia of more complicated desserts without the fuss. Perfect for last-minute gifts, potlucks, or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll return to year after year.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our desserts category full of crowd-pleasing treats. And if you’re looking for other make-ahead holiday recipes, our no-bake section has plenty of inspiration!

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Recipe adapted from a handwritten family recipe circa 1962. Please note this recipe contains tree nuts.