Step 1

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. You can also use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2

Combine the pecans, white sugar, brown sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once the mixture begins to boil, do not stir!

Step 3

Let the mixture come to a temperature of 240 degrees Fahrenheit or 115 degrees Celsius. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test it another way. Spoon out a small amount of the syrup and drop it into cold water. You’ll know it’s ready if a soft ball forms. It should flatten when removed from the water and placed on a flat surface.

Step 4

When the mixture is ready, place spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool completely.