Description
This Easy Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors with a rich vanilla touch. Made with toasted pecans and a smooth caramel base, these traditional Southern treats are simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of total time. Ideal for gifting or indulging in a delightful homemade candy experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Pralines 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
- Prepare the Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch. Then set them aside to cool.
- Make the Praline Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Stir this mixture over medium heat until the butter is fully melted and the sugar has dissolved, creating a smooth blend.
- Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches the soft-ball stage, approximately 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer. This step is crucial to achieve the right candy consistency.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat source. Quickly stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Form the Pralines: Drop spoonfuls of the hot praline mixture onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Allow them to cool and harden completely for about 15-20 minutes to set their shape.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once pralines have solidified, serve them immediately or store in an airtight container. They will keep fresh for up to one week, making them perfect for sharing or snacking later.
Notes
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to reach the soft-ball stage accurately for best texture.
- Ensure parchment paper or silicone mat is ready before cooking since the mixture hardens quickly.
- For a gluten-free treat, verify that your brown sugar is gluten-free certified.
- Store pralines in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent melting.
- For variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or swapping pecans with walnuts.
