Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are rich, creamy, and delightfully crunchy confections made with toasted pecans, sweet vanilla, and a buttery caramel base. Perfect for gifting or a sweet treat, they combine the nutty flavor of pecans with the smoothness of a classic praline candy, all cooked on the stovetop and set to perfection at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Praline Mixture
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Nuts
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Prepare a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to shape the pralines after cooking.
- Toast Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan halves for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant. This step enhances the nutty flavor. Once toasted, set aside.
- Combine Sugars and Cream: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sugars fully dissolve and the mixture begins to bubble gently.
- Add Butter and Boil: Add the unsalted butter to the saucepan and keep stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly, indicating the right consistency is beginning to form.
- Finish the Praline Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and salt. Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes as the mixture becomes creamy and starts to thicken, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Shape and Set: Quickly spoon the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds using the cookie scoop or tablespoon. Allow the pralines to cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until they are completely set and firm to the touch.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Be sure to work quickly when spooning out the pralines, as the mixture thickens fast.
- Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For a different flavor twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or substituting walnuts for pecans.
- Make sure to toast the pecans separately to enhance their flavor without overcooking the sugar mixture.
Keywords: vanilla pecan pralines, praline recipe, pecan candy, homemade pralines, southern pralines, stovetop candy
Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/vanilla-pecan-pralines-recipe/