Name: Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 cups pecan halves; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Vanilla Pecan Pralines capture the heart of Southern sweet-making in every buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Imagine the delicate crunch of toasted pecans nestled in a creamy, rich caramel touched with fragrant vanilla—each piece is pure confection perfection! Whether you’re stirring up a batch for holiday gifts or simply treating yourself, this classic recipe brings a bit of nostalgia and a whole lot of joy to any occasion.

Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe plays a starring role, transforming simple pantry staples into a luxurious southern candy. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll be gathering for this unforgettable treat—each one is crucial for flavor, texture, and that signature caramel sheen.

Granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness and structure for the pralines to set perfectly.
Light brown sugar: Adds depth and a touch of molasses that enhances the pralines’ rich, caramel flavor.
Heavy cream: Lends creamy smoothness and ensures your pralines stay soft and luscious.
Unsalted butter: Contributes buttery richness and a silky texture that makes every bite dreamy.
Pure vanilla extract: Delivers that warm, comforting aroma and classic vanilla undertone.
Pecan halves: Offer the perfect nutty crunch and are the heart of Vanilla Pecan Pralines.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the overall sweetness of the candy.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Sugars and Cream

Begin by grabbing your trusty heavy-bottomed saucepan. Over medium heat, blend together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula as the mixture slowly morphs from sandy grains into a smooth, creamy base. This phase sets the foundation for that perfect soft-but-decadent praline texture.

Step 2: Add Butter and Salt

Once your mixture is bubbling and the sugars have dissolved, toss in the unsalted butter and salt. Keep stirring until the butter melts completely, marrying with the cream and sugars. The butter doesn’t just add flavor—it provides that glossy finish and supple chew that makes these pralines irresistible.

Step 3: Cook to Soft-Ball Stage

Clip a candy thermometer to the side of your pan. Let the mixture cook undisturbed until it reaches 238°F, also known as the soft-ball stage. This is the crucial moment: patience will reward you with pralines that are neither too soft nor too brittle, but perfectly set and rich.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla and Pecans

Take the pan off the heat as soon as it hits the right temperature. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract—it’ll sizzle and fill your kitchen with dreamy aromas—then fold in those gorgeous pecan halves. This is where Vanilla Pecan Pralines get their unmistakable nutty, aromatic punch.

Step 5: Beat and Drop Pralines

Continue stirring the praline mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it starts to thicken and lose its shine. Now, working quickly, spoon generous clusters onto parchment paper or a silicone mat. They’ll firm up as they cool, so speed is your friend! Each one will have its own unique shape, but all will be delicious.

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way when serving Vanilla Pecan Pralines. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt just after you spoon them out. These garnishes elevate the flavors and make the pralines look even more tempting on a party platter or sweet tray.

Side Dishes

Pair these pralines with bold, contrasting flavors: a cup of robust coffee, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a dish of fresh berries helps balance their sweetness. They also shine alongside a cheese plate with sharp cheddars or tangy blue cheese for a playful, grown-up dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a gift in themselves! Pile them into decorative boxes lined with parchment for an irresistible homemade present. Or, wrap them individually in wax paper and tie with string for a festive favor at weddings or holiday gatherings. Stacked inside glass jars, they also make a beautiful centerpiece for a dessert buffet at any special event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep Vanilla Pecan Pralines at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, making them a convenient make-ahead treat whenever you need a little sweet something—no refrigeration required.

Freezing

If you’d like to make a batch in advance or savor your pralines over time, freezing is a great option. Arrange them in single layers separated by parchment paper and place in a tightly sealed container. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to two months—just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

Pralines are at their best at room temperature, but if you prefer a bit of softness, just let them sit out for a few minutes if they seem a little hard after storage. Avoid microwaving or reheating, as this can cause them to melt unevenly and lose that signature structure.

FAQs

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Absolutely! Using dark brown sugar will give your Vanilla Pecan Pralines a more pronounced molasses flavor and deeper color. Expect a slightly richer and chewier texture—it’s a fun twist if you love extra caramel notes.

What’s the best way to toast pecans for this recipe?

Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet, then toast them in a 350°F oven for about 7-10 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool before folding into the candy—the toasty flavor adds incredible depth to your pralines!

Can I double the recipe?

You can double Vanilla Pecan Pralines, but be mindful: working with larger batches of hot sugar can be tricky. Use a large, heavy pan and work quickly when forming the candies, as the mixture firms up fast.

Do Vanilla Pecan Pralines need to be refrigerated?

No refrigeration needed! These pralines are best kept at room temperature in an airtight container, away from humidity and direct sunlight. The candy can pick up moisture in the fridge, which may make it sticky.

Why did my pralines turn out grainy?

Graininess is often caused by undissolved sugar crystals or over-stirring after the candy cools too much. Be sure the sugars are fully dissolved before cooking and only stir the mixture until it begins to thicken after adding vanilla and pecans, then form your pralines promptly.

Final Thoughts

Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines is like capturing a bit of Southern charm in your own kitchen. These treats are simple enough for beginners, yet special enough for cherished celebrations. Don’t wait for a holiday—treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these buttery, nutty delights and savor the smiles that follow!

Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

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4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 pralines 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of these homemade Vanilla Pecan Pralines. A classic Southern treat, these candies are perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pralines:

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a large saucepan, heat granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream until dissolved and boiling.
Add Butter and Pecans: Stir in butter, salt, and pecans. Cook until mixture reaches 238°F.
Finish the Pralines: Remove from heat, add vanilla, and stir until thickened. Spoon onto parchment paper to cool.