Creamy Pecan Pralines
These creamy pecan pralines are sweet, buttery, and packed with crunchy pecans. Each bite melts in your mouth, making them a wonderful homemade treat for Christmas, holiday parties, or gifting to family and friends. Best of all, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients!
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves and pieces
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Heat the sugar and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts.
- Cook the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue cooking until it reaches approximately 238°F (114°C) on a candy thermometer, the soft-ball stage.
- Add the pecans: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then stir in the vanilla extract and pecans.
- Beat until creamy: Stir the mixture until it begins to thicken and lose some of its glossy appearance. Work quickly before it becomes too firm.
- Shape the pralines: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small round candies.
- Let them set: Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Serve and enjoy: Once set, transfer the pralines to an airtight container and enjoy these sweet, creamy pecan treats!
Tips for Perfect Pralines
- Use a candy thermometer for the most reliable results.
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Avoid making pralines on very humid days, as humidity can affect how they set.
- If the mixture thickens too quickly, work fast when shaping the candies.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 30–60 minutes
Servings: Approximately 18–24 pralines