1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
2 cups sugar (for every can of milk)
1-2 tsp. vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp. butter (sweet if you can find it)
whole pecans

In a large pot mix all ingredients except pecans and stir continually. Place pecans in oven to warm for 1 to 2 minutes at 375°F. When thickened (about 3 to 5 minutes) add pecans and place heaping spoonfuls on parchment paper.

Makes 15 large candies.

Note: A family trick is to lower stove heat about 3 minutes in and place a small spoonful on parchment to check proper consistency. If it hardens immediately you have an old fashioned candy, turn off pot. If it runs, keep cooking. If it stays in place but feels soft (my favorite), they can be considered done but will never be hard.

Submitted by: L. Matthews