Description
Classic Southern Pecan Pralines are a deliciously sweet and creamy candy made with brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and toasted pecans. These rich, caramelized treats have a smooth, fudgy texture with a delightful crunch from the pecans, perfect for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the pralines from sticking while they cool.
- Cook the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. Allow it to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
- Add the Pecans: Stir in the pecan halves and cook the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken further and coat the nuts evenly.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the pralines with rich flavor.
- Spoon the Pralines: Drop small spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart as they will firm up and hold their shape.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pralines set at room temperature for 30 minutes. Once they have hardened, allow them to cool completely before enjoying or storing.
Notes
- Use freshly shelled pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Stir constantly while cooking to prevent burning the sugar.
- Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For a gluten-free treat, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten free.
- Adjust the size of spoonfuls for larger or smaller pralines depending on preference.
