These Pecan Pralines are the perfect blend of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. A true Southern classic, these candies are made with caramelized sugar, cream, and toasted pecans for that unmistakable praline flavor. The first time I made them, my kitchen smelled like a confectionery dream—rich brown sugar and toasted nuts mingling together in the air. They’re perfect for holidays, gifts, or whenever you want a sweet, nostalgic treat that tastes like pure Southern comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these pralines for their perfect balance of textures—crispy around the edges, creamy in the center, and filled with buttery, caramel-coated pecans. They’re surprisingly easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. With each bite, you get that signature melt-in-your-mouth consistency and deep brown sugar flavor. Whether enjoyed as a treat with coffee, packed into gift boxes, or served at festive gatherings, these pralines are guaranteed to impress.
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Pecan Pralines – Sweet, Buttery & Irresistibly Southern
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 pralines
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pralines are classic Southern confections made with toasted pecans coated in a rich, buttery caramel mixture of brown sugar, butter, and cream. Sweet, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these candies are a timeless treat perfect for holidays or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups pecan halves (toasted if desired)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare your station: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage).
- Add pecans and flavoring: Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, and pecans. Continue stirring for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and begins to lose its glossy sheen.
- Form the pralines: Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Work fast before the mixture hardens.
- Let the pralines cool and set completely at room temperature (about 20–30 minutes).
- Serve or store: Once firm, transfer pralines to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to enhance their flavor before adding to the candy mixture.
- Humidity can affect praline texture — make them on a dry day for best results.
- If your pralines don’t set, place them in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
- For an extra indulgent version, drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop Candy Making
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pecans: The star ingredient—fresh, toasted, and rich in flavor.
Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and that deep caramel flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture.
Heavy Cream (or Evaporated Milk): Adds creaminess and richness to the praline mixture.
Butter: Enhances flavor and gives pralines their smooth, velvety texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the candy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavor.
Directions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cream, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage).
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Add the pecans and stir vigorously for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and starts to lose its glossy sheen. Working quickly, spoon small portions (about 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
Once set, your pralines will be smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet with that signature Southern crunch. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and tender.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Makes about 18–20 pralines. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes. Cooling time: 30 minutes. Total time: approximately 55 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Do not refrigerate if you prefer a softer texture. Avoid humidity, as moisture can make the candies sticky.
Variations and Customizations
Maple Pecan Pralines: Replace part of the sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
Chocolate Drizzle Pralines: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate.
Bourbon Pecan Pralines: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the mixture right after removing it from heat for a grown-up twist.
Sea Salt Pralines: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before they set for a sweet-salty balance.
Coconut Pralines: Stir in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Pralines: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy touch.
Pecan Cluster Pralines: Add extra pecans for thicker, crunchier bites.
Cream Cheese Pralines: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese for a soft, fudgy texture.
Honey Pecan Pralines: Replace some sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Why are my pralines grainy?
They may have been overcooked or stirred too little after reaching temperature. Stir until the gloss fades for a smooth texture.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Heavy cream or evaporated milk gives the best texture—milk may make them too soft.
Do I have to toast the pecans first?
Yes, toasting enhances their flavor and adds crunch.
Can I make them without a candy thermometer?
Yes—drop a small amount of mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
Why didn’t my pralines harden?
They may have been undercooked; the sugar needs to reach soft-ball stage.
Can I reheat the mixture if it sets too quickly?
Yes, gently reheat over low heat to soften, but avoid boiling again.
Can I make pralines without butter?
Butter is key for texture, but you can use plant-based alternatives.
Are pralines the same as candied pecans?
No—pralines have a creamy, fudge-like coating, while candied pecans are crisp and caramelized.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a large saucepan to prevent overflowing.
Can I freeze pralines?
Yes, freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
These Pecan Pralines are the epitome of Southern sweetness—creamy, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a confection that feels like a warm hug from the South. Whether you make them for gifting, holidays, or a special homemade treat, these pralines are sure to bring smiles (and requests for seconds) every time.
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