1 c. sugar
1 c. firmly packed brown sugar
2 c. coarsely chopped pecans
3/4 c. buttermilk
2 tbsp. butter
Dash of salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tbsp. vanilla

Combine first 6 ingredients in a large, heavy saucepan. Cook over low heat; stirring gently, until sugar dissolves. Cover and cook over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes to wash down sugar crystals from sides of pan. Uncover and cook to soft ball stage (234 degrees), stirring constantly.

Remove from heat and stir in soda and vanilla. Beat with a wooden spoon just until mixture begins to thicken. Working quickly, drop by tablespoon onto greased wax paper. Let stand until firm. Yield 1 1/2 to 2 dozen.