Recipe: Pecan Log Rolls

PECAN LOG ROLLS
These rolls are best eaten fresh, but they can be frozen for up to three months. If desired, make the fondant and freeze overnight, then finish the rolls the next day.

1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 egg white
1/8 tsp. cream of tartar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 package(14 oz.) caramels
3 Tbsp. water
2 cups coarsely chopped pecans

Line a 9x5" loaf pan with buttered waxed paper; set aside.
Combine corn syrup, water and sugar in small heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat , stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil. Wash down side of pan with pastry brush dipped in hot water frequently, to remove sugar crystals. Add candy thermometer. Continue to cook until mixture reaches the hard-ball stage (255F).

Meanwhile, beat egg white and cream of tartar with heavy duty electric mixer, until stiff but not dry. Slowly pour hot syrup into egg white, beating constantly. Add vanilla, beat until candy forms soft peaks and starts to lose its gloss. Spoon fondant into prepared pan. Cut into three strips lengthwise, then crosswise in center. Freeze till firm.

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper, set aside.
Melt caramels with water in small heavy saucepan, over low heat, stirring occasionally. Arrange pecans on waxed paper.
Working quickly, drop 1 piece of the frozen fondant into melted caramels to coat. Roll in pecans to completely coat. Place on prepared baking sheet to set. Repeat with remaining fondant pieces, reheating caramel mixture if it becomes too thick.

Cut logs into 1/2-inch slices. Store in fridge in airtight container between layers of waxed paper or freeze up to 3 months.Makes six 5-inch rolls.

For perfect slices, freeze finished rolls before cutting.