Go Back
–+ servings
Candy Nut Loaf
Candy Nut Loaf is a classic old-fashioned confection that bridges the gap between candy and dessert. Popular in mid-20th-century home kitchens, this sweet treat combines a cooked sugar base with coconut, nuts, and dates, resulting in a rich, sliceable loaf. The method resembles traditional candy-making, where sugar is cooked to a soft-ball stage before adding mix-ins. Once rolled and cooled, it forms a firm yet tender texture packed with sweetness and crunch. This type of recipe reflects a time when simple pantry ingredients were transformed into impressive homemade sweets, perfect for holidays, gatherings, or gifting.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 27 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ¾ cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dates (chopped )
  • ¾ cup nut meats (such as walnuts or pecans)
  • 20 candied cherries (½ red, ½ green, chopped)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and butter.

Step 2: Cook to Soft Ball Stage

  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches soft ball stage (238°F).

Step 3: Add Dates

  • Stir in chopped dates.

Step 4: Continue Cooking

  • Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

  • Remove from heat and stir in coconut, chopped nuts, and candied cherries.

Step 6: Prepare Cloth

  • Lay out a clean cloth and dampen it slightly with cold water.

Step 7: Pour Mixture

  • Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared cloth.

Step 8: Shape the Loaf

  • Using the cloth, carefully roll the mixture into a log shape.

Step 9: Cool and Set

  • Let the loaf stand and cool for 1 to 2 hours until firm.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

  • Slice into rounds and serve.

Tips

  • Use pecans or walnuts depending on preference
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness
  • Substitute dried cherries for candied cherries for a less sweet option
  • Lightly toast nuts for added flavor
  • Roll in powdered sugar or coconut before slicing
  • Add vanilla extract for depth
  • Chill in the refrigerator for faster setting
  • Use parchment paper instead of cloth for easier cleanup

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 40mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg
Keyword candy loaf, coconut, Dates, homemade candy, nuts, retro dessert, sweet treat, vintage