Last year, I was asked to teach a class on making Pecan Logs in Relief Society. The pecan logs I usually make are kind of complicated and unless you really enjoy making candy or really love pecan logs, I don't think you will ever make them. So I came up with a much easier version. They aren't quite as good, but they are really delicious for the amount of work that goes in to them. Last night I taught the Young Women in my ward how to make them. They all loved them and had a great time making them.
I bought the instant fondant mix at Bakers Cash and Carry in Murray. I have never seen it anywhere else. I think they buy it in bulk and repackage it there. So, if you don't live in the Salt Lake area, it might be hard to find, thus making these Pecan Logs hard to make.
Easy Pecan Logs
1/2 cup instant fondant mix (available at Bakers Cash & Carry)
1 Tbsp. butter (softened)
1 teaspoon cream (maybe a little more)
2 drops real vanilla
3-4 ounces pre made caramel (Peter's brand is good, also available at Bakers Cash & Carry)
Pecan halves
Put first four ingredients in a small ziplock bag. Knead until smooth. It should be about the consistency of play dough. If it is too stiff add a few drops of cream until the right consistency is reached. If it is too runny, add a little fondant mix. Remove from the bag and roll into a rope about 1 inch thick and 4 or 5 inches long.
With a rolling pin, roll the caramel into a flat rectangle about 1/8-1/4 inch thick. Place in the microwave for about 4 seconds.(on a piece of parchment paper) Press pecan halves into the caramel, round side up in rows. Leave about a half inch along the side without pecans. Let cool slightly. Wrap the caramel around the fondant rope overlapping to cover the part without pecans. press edge together. Store in fridge until about a half hour before serving. Slice and serve. It will go hard in the fridge and will crack when you try to slice it. So let it return to room temperature be slicing.
