Description
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are rich, creamy, and perfectly sweetened bite-sized candies with a buttery hint and crunchy pecans. A classic Southern treat, these pralines boast a creamy texture with a hint of vanilla and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, making them an indulgent snack or gift.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (or chopped pecans)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pecan Praline Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the butter melts, creating a smooth mixture.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring constantly. Continue boiling for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, approximately 235°F (113°C) on a candy thermometer. This ensures the correct candy consistency.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat once the soft ball stage is reached. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile of the pralines.
- Incorporate Pecans: Add the pecan halves to the hot mixture and stir thoroughly to coat the nuts evenly. The candy mixture will begin to thicken as it cools.
- Shape the Pralines: Working quickly, use a spoon to drop dollops of the candy mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat. This step must be done promptly before the mixture fully hardens.
- Set the Pralines: Allow the shaped pralines to cool and set at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes or until firm and fully hardened.
- Serve or Store: Once set, serve the pralines immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the perfect soft ball stage for ideal texture.
- Work quickly when shaping pralines because the mixture sets fast.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast pecans lightly before adding to the mixture.
- Store pralines in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming sticky or stale.
- If mixture cools too much and hardens before shaping, gently reheat over low heat to soften.
