Pecan Patties

I had a blast making these and they taste much better than the ones you find at the grocery stores.  I mean, these only last a week or so in an airtight container, and the grocery store pecan logs last what...months? Years?  It really makes a gal wonder what they put in those things.  Maybe I don't want to know...Anyway! These Pecan Patties were fun to make and pretty messy lol but that's what Holiday baking is meant to be right?!  Enjoy!

Pecan Patties

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 2 (7 ounce) Jars marshmallow cream
• 3.5 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pound soft caramels
• 2 tsp heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups pecans, finely chopped

Directions:

• In a large bowl, combine the marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir with a spoon until it becomes too difficult, then knead with your hands until all of the sugar is incorporated and you have a smooth, putty-textured ball.
• Divide the candy into equal parts, rolling them into round balls about 1” in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with foil or waxed paper, and freeze them until very firm, at least 1 hour.
• Once the balls are ready, place the unwrapped caramels in a large microwave-safe bowl with the cream. Microwave for one minute, then stir the caramels. If they have not all melted, or if it is still very stiff, microwave for an additional brief period. Stir until the caramel is smooth.
• Place the chopped pecans in a shallow bowl or pie tin.
• Remove the balls from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tools, dip one in the melted caramel until it is completely submerged. Remove it from the caramel, then place it on the chopped pecans, and roll it in the nuts until every surface is covered with nuts. Replace the ball on the baking sheet and quickly repeat with remaining balls. If the caramel gets too thick, microwave it again briefly until it is smooth and liquid.
• Once all of the pecan balls have been coated in caramel and nuts, return them to the freezer for 30 minutes. Pecan Patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be aware that if it gets too warm, the caramel will soften and may not hold its shape.

I had trouble with the balls holding form so they turned into patties.  It probably had to do with how humid it was when I was making them, so don't feel bad if they don't turn out perfect.  They'll still taste heavenly.

Source:  About.com