Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Vanilla Pecan Pralines are rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Southern candies made with toasted pecans, two kinds of sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or treating yourself to something decadent.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves toasted (see note below)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Bake pecans at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let cool.
- Cook the Syrup: Combine sugars, cream, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Stir over medium heat until dissolved and bubbling.
- Boil Without Stirring: Let the mixture boil undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly (or reaches 235°F).
- Test for Doneness: Drop a bit in cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds together but flattens.
- Add Vanilla & Pecans: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and pecans. Stir briskly until the mixture thickens.
- Shape & Cool: Quickly spoon onto parchment in rounds. Let cool for 15 minutes until set and firm.