Description
Easy Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a rich, buttery homemade candy with toasted pecans and warm vanilla flavor in every bite. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday dessert trays, sweet snack cravings, edible gifts, and simple food ideas when you want an easy dessert that feels special without being complicated.
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper and set it near the stove.
2. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt to a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve.
4. Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the mixture reaches 235°F to 240°F.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pecans.
6. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken slightly and loses some of its shine.
7. Quickly spoon the mixture into small mounds on the prepared parchment paper.
8. Let the pralines cool completely at room temperature until set.
Notes
Toast the pecans first for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Work quickly once the mixture is ready because pralines begin setting fast.
Use a candy thermometer for the most reliable texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg