Classic Pecan Pralines
Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of Classic Pecan Pralines, a Southern confection that's as timeless as it is irresistible. Made with a luscious combination of granulated and light brown sugar, heavy cream, and velvety butter, this recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth texture with every bite. The toasted pecan halves add a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the candy's creamy decadence. Using a candy thermometer ensures the pralines reach the ideal soft-ball stage, while a touch of vanilla extract enhances their warm, nutty flavor. Perfect for holiday gifting, party platters, or a sweet treat anytime, these pralines are easy to make and set beautifully in just 30 minutes. Impress family and friends with this authentic Southern sweet that’s steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Directions
Step 1
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
Step 2
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Stir gently to combine the ingredients, occasionally scraping the sides of the pan to prevent sugar crystals from forming.
Step 3
Once the butter has melted and the mixture begins to simmer, attach a candy thermometer and cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches between 234°F to 240°F (soft ball stage).
Step 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for exactly 1 minute, then stir in the vanilla extract and pecan halves.
Step 5
Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens and loses some of its gloss; this may take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 6
Quickly spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Work quickly as the mixture can set rapidly.
Step 7
Allow the pralines to cool at room temperature until fully set and hardened, about 30 minutes.
Step 8
Once cooled, transfer the pralines to an airtight container for storage or wrap them individually in waxed paper for gifting.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1028.5g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4691.8 |
| Total Fat 291.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 90.4g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 364mg | 0% |
| Sodium 705.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 530.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 21.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 506.3g | |
| Protein 21.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 255.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 6.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1082.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories