Vanilla Pecan Pralines: A Classic Southern Melt-In-Your-Mouth Treat

If you’re searching for a homemade candy that’s rich, creamy, and unforgettable, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines are exactly what you need. Originating from traditional Southern kitchens, pralines are known for their smooth, fudgy texture and warm, nutty sweetness. This version blends toasted pecans with a velvety mixture of cream, butter, and sugar, creating a candy that quite literally melts in your mouth.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for gifting, parties, or adding to a holiday dessert tray. Even better, pralines are surprisingly simple to make—just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience while the mixture cooks and cools. Whether you’re preparing treats for a celebration or simply craving something sweet, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines deliver a perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and warm vanilla flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups pecans, toasted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

2. Combine Base Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. These ingredients form the rich praline base.

3. Dissolve and Heat

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugars dissolve and the mixture begins to boil.

4. Boil the Mixture

Allow the mixture to boil for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should begin to thicken slightly as it cooks.

5. Add Vanilla and Pecans

Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and the toasted pecans. The fragrance at this stage is incredible.

6. Stir to Thicken

Continue stirring the mixture for about 2 minutes until it loses some of its shine and becomes thicker. This step is key for a smooth, creamy praline texture.

7. Form the Pralines

Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Try to form round, evenly sized pralines.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the pralines cool at room temperature for 30 minutes until they are fully set and firm enough to lift.

Notes & Tips

• Toast your pecans for a deeper, richer flavor and added crunch.
• Stir continuously while cooling the mixture to help prevent sugar crystallization.
• Store pralines in an airtight container for up to a week to keep them fresh and creamy.

Nutrition (per praline)

• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 40mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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