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Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Delightfully sweet, buttery, and nutty, Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern treat that melt in your mouth. These candies combine rich caramelized sugar, creamy vanilla, and toasted pecans to create the perfect bite-sized indulgence.

Perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these pralines are as easy to make as they are delicious. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or wrap them up as homemade gifts, their rich flavor and delicate texture are sure to impress.

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  • Sweet and Buttery: A rich caramel flavor with a hint of vanilla.
  • Crunchy Pecans: Toasted pecans add texture and depth.
  • Perfect for Gifting: A homemade candy that’s great for the holidays.
  • Simple to Make: Requires just a few ingredients and a little patience.

Exciting Story

The first time I made Vanilla Pecan Pralines, it was for a holiday cookie exchange. I wanted something unique and classic, and these candies fit the bill perfectly. As the sugar melted and filled the kitchen with a warm, caramel aroma, I knew I’d found a winner.

When I presented them at the exchange, their glossy finish and rich flavor made them a hit. Now, making pralines has become a holiday tradition, and they’re a must-have treat in our household.

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Why These Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Southern Classic: A timeless recipe with authentic flavors.
  • Rich and Decadent: Perfectly sweetened with caramelized sugar and vanilla.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
  • Gifting Ready: A thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.

What You Need for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, toasted

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Prepare Your Surface

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool.

Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, milk, and salt.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

Step 4: Add Pecans and Vanilla

  1. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans.

Step 5: Beat the Mixture

  1. Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens and begins to lose its glossy appearance, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Drop the Pralines

  1. Quickly spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly before the mixture hardens.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Let the pralines cool completely until firm. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Tips for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

  1. Use a Candy Thermometer: Ensures the sugar mixture reaches the perfect temperature.
  2. Work Quickly: Once the mixture is ready, spoon it onto the baking sheet immediately to prevent hardening in the pot.
  3. Toast the Pecans: This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Nut Options: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a twist.
  • Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines for extra decadence.
  • Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla with maple extract for a unique flavor profile.

Make a Healthier Version

  • Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar, though the texture may vary.
  • Low-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk.
  • Natural Sweeteners: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey for a natural sweetness.

Closing for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

And there you have it—Vanilla Pecan Pralines, a sweet Southern classic that’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or anytime you want a decadent treat. With their buttery caramel flavor, toasted pecans, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these pralines are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Happy candy-making, and enjoy every sweet bite!

Frequently Asked Questions for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

  1. Can I make these without a candy thermometer?
    Yes, but it’s trickier. Look for the soft-ball stage by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water—it should form a soft ball.
  2. How do I store pralines?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  3. Can I freeze pralines?
    Yes, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  4. Why did my pralines not set?
    The sugar mixture may not have reached the correct temperature. A candy thermometer is helpful to ensure accuracy.
  5. Can I use dark brown sugar?
    Yes, but it will result in a deeper, more molasses-like flavor.
  6. What if my pralines harden in the pot?
    Reheat the mixture gently over low heat until it becomes pourable again.
  7. Can I use salted butter?
    Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt.
  8. How can I clean the pot after making pralines?
    Fill it with water and bring it to a boil to dissolve the hardened sugar.
  9. Can I add other mix-ins?
    Yes! Try adding shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
  10. What can I serve with pralines?
    Serve them alongside coffee, ice cream, or as part of a dessert platter.

Enjoy making and sharing this classic sweet treat! 🎉🍬✨

Vanilla Pecan Pralines

0 from 0 votes
Recipe by Alexandra
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal
Total time

0

minutes
Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup 1/2 packed light brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup 1/2 heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup 1/4 unsalted butter

  • 1/4 cup 1/4 whole milk

  • 1/8 teaspoon 1/8 salt

  • 1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract

  • 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 pecan halves, toasted

Directions

  • Step 1: Prepare Your Surface
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
  • Step 2: Toast the Pecans
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool.
  • Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture
  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, milk, and salt.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
  • Step 4: Add Pecans and Vanilla
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans.
  • Step 5: Beat the Mixture
  • Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture vigorously until it thickens and begins to lose its glossy appearance, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Step 6: Drop the Pralines
  • Quickly spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly before the mixture hardens.
  • Step 7: Cool and Serve
  • Let the pralines cool completely until firm. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

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