Description
This Easy Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe delivers rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth pralines with the warm taste of toasted pecans and a hint of vanilla. A classic Southern candy treat that’s simple to make and perfect for gifting or snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Praline Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir over medium heat until the butter is fully melted and the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes or until the syrup reaches the soft-ball stage, between 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well, ensuring pecans are fully coated.
- Form the Pralines: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Allow the pralines to cool and harden for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, enjoy these pralines immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for the most accurate results to achieve the perfect soft-ball stage.
- For a crunchier praline, you can toast the pecans slightly longer, but be careful not to burn them.
- If pralines stick to the parchment paper, let them cool completely before removing.
- Store pralines in a cool, dry place away from humidity to avoid stickiness.
- Can be gifted by placing pralines in decorative boxes or cellophane bags with ribbons.
