Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies are a delicious Southern dessert with a rich history and a delightful combination of flavors. Here’s all the information you asked for:
What is it?
Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies are a type of cookie or brownie bar. They are known for their chewy texture, fudgy chocolate flavor, and the delightful crunch of pecans. These treats are beloved by many for their sweet and nutty taste.
History:
The exact origin of Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies is not well-documented, but it is part of the Southern culinary tradition. Southern cuisine often features pecans, as they are native to the region, and this dessert likely evolved as a way to showcase this beloved nut.
Components:
Here are the main components of Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies:
- Chocolate: These chewies are chocolate-based, using cocoa powder or melted chocolate for the fudgy flavor.
- Pecans: Pecans are a key ingredient, providing a nutty and crunchy texture.
- Butter: Butter is used to create a rich and tender texture.
- Sugar: Both granulated sugar and brown sugar are typically used to sweeten the chewies.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is used as the base for the batter.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt: A small amount of salt is added to balance the sweetness.
Steps to Prepare Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove, melt the chocolate and butter together until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Add Chocolate Mixture: Slowly pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture while continuously whisking.
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Add Flour and Salt: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the batter.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (you want them to be chewy).
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Cool and Cut: Allow the chewies to cool in the pan for a while before cutting them into squares or bars.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies is approximately 45-55 minutes, including preparation and baking time. This may vary slightly depending on your oven and baking experience.
Enjoy these delightful Southern treats, rich with chocolate and pecan goodness!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 14-18g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 30-40mg
- Sodium: 60-80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-4g
Health Information:
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Moderation: Alabama Fudge-Pecan Chewies are a delicious dessert but are also calorie-dense due to the sugar and butter content. Enjoy them in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
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Sugar: These treats are relatively high in sugar, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and energy crashes if consumed excessively. Individuals with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake should be cautious.
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Fats: The recipe includes both saturated and unsaturated fats from butter and pecans. While some fats are essential for our diet, it’s important to consume them in moderation to maintain heart health.
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Fiber: These chewies contain a small amount of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion. However, they are not a significant source of fiber.
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Nutrition Variation: The exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific recipe and portion size. Using healthier substitutions, like whole wheat flour or reducing sugar, can make them slightly more nutritious.
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Pecans: Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium. They also provide some protein and dietary fiber.
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Portion Control: To enjoy these chewies without overindulging, consider cutting them into smaller portions or sharing with friends and family.
Remember that the nutritional values mentioned above are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and proportions used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to check specific product labels or use a nutritional calculator for precise information, especially if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.
