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Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Close-up of Homemade Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are creamy, sweet confections combining roasted pecans with a rich vanilla-flavored caramel, perfect as a classic Southern treat or elegant gift.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
  3. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a full rolling boil, then cook without stirring until it registers 238°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
  4. Remove from heat and immediately stir in pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
  5. Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it thickens and becomes creamy.
  6. Quickly drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet before the pralines harden.
  7. Allow to cool and set completely before serving or storing.

Notes

For a richer flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the mixture. Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.