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Delicious creamy vanilla pecan pralines topped with crushed pecans

Creamy Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Deliciously rich and slightly chewy pralines made with toasted pecans and a warm vanilla note, perfect for holiday gifting or sweet finishes to meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 pralines
Course: Candy, Dessert, Sweets
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pralines
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark) Darker gives deeper molasses notes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream For a dairy-free version, substitute with full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Use vegan butter for dairy-free version
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For best flavor, add off heat
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped Lightly toasted if desired

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment and set it within reach.
Cooking
  1. In a medium saucepan, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Stir gently to combine.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugars dissolve and the mixture reaches a full rolling boil.
  3. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil gently for 5–7 minutes until it reaches the soft-ball stage (about 238°F / 114°C).
  4. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until evenly distributed. The mixture will thicken and become glossy.
  5. Wait 30–60 seconds so the mixture cools slightly, then quickly drop spoonfuls onto the prepared parchment. Work fast, as pralines firm quickly.
  6. Let the pralines cool at room temperature until set before serving or packaging.

Notes

For a beautifully glossy finish, stir in vanilla off the heat so the flavor remains bright. Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.