2 1/2 c. white sugar
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. pecan halves

Butter heavy 4-quart pan. Add sugar, buttermilk, soda and salt. Bring to boil over medium heat. Reduce heat; stir until it reaches softball stage (234 degrees on candy thermometer).

Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla; DO NOT STIR. Cool 5 minutes. Beat until cool and slightly thickened, 2-3 minutes. Stir in pecans. Drop immediately with a teaspoon onto wax paper. Allow to cool.