2 c. sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 c. buttermilk
2 tbsp. butter
2 c. pecan halves
1 tsp. vanilla

1. Combine sugar, baking soda, salt and buttermilk in a large saucepan.

2. Heat to boiling over high heat, stirring constantly. Stir until mixture reaches 210 degrees on a candy thermometer.

3. Add butter and pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring often to the very soft ball stage (230 degrees). Remove from heat; add vanilla.

4. Allow to stand until bubbling stops. Beat with wooden spoon until mixture loses its gloss. Drop in mounds on wax paper.