Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern delicacy that deliver a sweet, creamy, and crunchy experience in every bite. Made from a rich blend of brown and granulated sugars, evaporated milk, butter, and toasted pecan halves, these homemade treats are perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. If you’re looking for a delightful candy recipe that captures the essence of Southern sweets, Pecan Pralines are the way to go. Let’s dive into how to create these delicious candies right in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pralines
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Southern pecan pralines. First, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for beginners looking for an easy pecan praline recipe. Second, they offer a unique blend of textures—from the creamy, smooth caramel to the crunchy pecans. These pecan candies are delightful for gifting, making them a great pecan praline gift idea. Additionally, they can be frozen for future enjoyment, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand. Finally, their rich flavor profile makes them a favorite at gatherings, adding a touch of Southern charm to any occasion.
Ingredients for Pecan Pralines
Gather these items:
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220 grams) dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup (175 grams) evaporated milk
- ¼ cup (56 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 ⅓ cups (220 grams) pecan halves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ teaspoon salt
How to Make Pecan Pralines Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Line a half sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large pot, combine granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and baking soda. Place over medium heat and stir regularly.
- Step 3: Once the mixture starts bubbling, stir constantly until it reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on the candy thermometer.
- Step 4: Remove the pot from heat and add the pecan halves, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir vigorously for about 3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Step 5: Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into individual pralines.
- Step 6: Let the pralines cool and harden at room temperature.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pralines
Keep these in mind:
- Store pralines in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Can be frozen for later enjoyment, allowing you to savor these treats at your convenience.
- For a richer flavor, consider using pecan pralines with cream in your recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Pecan Pralines
These delightful candies can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea, or use them as a topping for pecan praline cupcakes. They also pair wonderfully with ice cream, creating a decadent dessert experience. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, these pralines are sure to impress!
How to Store and Reheat Pecan Pralines
To preserve the freshness of your pralines, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several weeks if kept properly. For meal prep enthusiasts, these candies can be made in advance and stored in the freezer, making them a convenient sweet option for any day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pralines
What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Pralines?
The key to perfect Pecan Pralines lies in achieving the right temperature when cooking the sugar mixture. Reaching the soft-ball stage at 236°F ensures the perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Can I make Pecan Pralines ahead of time?
Absolutely! These homemade pecan pralines recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They maintain their flavor and texture well, making them perfect for special occasions.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Pralines?
To avoid mistakes, ensure you stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent burning. Also, using a candy thermometer is crucial for getting the right consistency, so don’t skip this step!
Variations of Pecan Pralines You Can Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several variations of Pecan Pralines you can explore. Consider making chocolate-covered pecan pralines for an indulgent twist, or try adding spices like cinnamon for a unique flavor profile. You could also experiment with pecan praline pie recipe to create a delicious dessert that highlights these classic flavors. Each variation offers a delightful new take on this Southern favorite!
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast option. If you’re interested in other Southern treats, don’t miss our sweet potato biscuits recipe!
For more information on the history and cultural significance of pralines, you can visit Southern Living.
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Pecan Pralines: 5 Irresistible Southern Treats to Try
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 pralines 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Pecan Pralines recipe delivers sweet, creamy, and crunchy candies made with a rich blend of brown and granulated sugars, evaporated milk, butter, and toasted pecan halves.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220 grams) dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup (175 grams) evaporated milk
- ¼ cup (56 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 ⅓ cups (220 grams) pecan halves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a half sheet baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, combine granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and baking soda. Place over medium heat and stir regularly.
- Once the mixture starts bubbling, stir constantly until it reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on the candy thermometer.
- Remove the pot from heat and add the pecan halves, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir vigorously for about 3 minutes.
- Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into individual pralines.
- Let the pralines cool and harden at room temperature.
Notes
- Store pralines in an airtight container.
- Can be frozen for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Pecan Pralines, Southern candy, dessert recipe
