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Easy Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 81 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pralines
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

This Easy Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe offers a deliciously sweet and nutty treat made with toasted pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla. These creamy, buttery pralines are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and can be made quickly with simple ingredients.


Ingredients

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

  1. Prepare the Pecans: Toast the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant. This step enhances the pecans’ natural flavor. Set aside once done.
  2. Make the Praline Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously over medium heat until the butter has fully melted and the sugar is dissolved into the mixture.
  3. Boil the Mixture: Bring the sugar mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes or until the syrup reaches the soft-ball stage of 235°F to 240°F as measured by a candy thermometer, which ensures the perfect chewy texture.
  4. Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly coat the nuts and flavor the praline mixture.
  5. Form the Pralines: Using a spoon, drop dollops of the praline mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Allow them to cool and harden completely, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pralines have set and hardened, they are ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct soft-ball stage for perfect texture.
  • Be careful when handling the hot sugar mixture to avoid burns.
  • Store pralines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • You can substitute pecan halves with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if desired.
  • For a slightly different flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.