Emeril's Creamy Pralines

Indulge your sweet tooth with Emeril's Creamy Pralines, a Southern confection that combines rich tradition with a smooth, velvety texture. This decadent treat features the perfect balance of caramelized sugars, buttery cream, and crunchy pecans, all enhanced by a hint of vanilla and a pinch of salt. Using a candy thermometer ensures you’ll achieve that signature soft-ball stage for pralines that hold their shape yet melt in your mouth. Ideal as a homemade gift or an irresistible snack, these pralines are easy to make and utterly satisfying. With just 10 minutes of prep and a handful of pantry staples, this classic recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 37/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 20

Ingredients

• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Light brown sugar
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 2 cups Pecans, coarsely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 pinch Salt

Directions

Step 1

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

Step 2

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the butter is fully melted and the sugars are dissolved.

Step 3

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom of the pot. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4

Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 238°F (the soft-ball stage). This should take about 10-15 minutes. Be patient and monitor the heat to avoid scorching.

Step 5

Once the mixture reaches 238°F, remove it from the heat immediately. Carefully stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully incorporated.

Step 6

Working quickly, use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. Aim to form roundish mounds, but don't worry if they aren't perfect.

Step 7

Let the pralines cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes to 1 hour, until they are firm and hold their shape.

Step 8

Once cooled, carefully peel the pralines off the parchment paper. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1125.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5047.5

Total Fat 287.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 91.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 365.8mg	0%
Sodium 273.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 631.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.5g	0%
Total Sugars 609.6g
Protein 21.0g	0%

Vitamin D 28.4IU	0%
Calcium 294.6mg	0%
Iron 6.2mg	0%
Potassium 1189.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.8%

Protein: 1.6%

Carbs: 48.6%