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Southern Pecan Pralines

Southern Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern confection made with sugar, butter, cream, and pecans. They are sweet, creamy, and nutty with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt.
  3. Stir continuously until the sugars dissolve and the mixture reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
  5. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
  6. Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Let pralines cool completely until firm before serving.

Notes

  • Work quickly when dropping pralines, as the mixture sets fast.
  • If pralines remain sticky, they may not have reached the correct temperature.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southern pecan pralines, praline candy, pecan candy, Southern dessert, holiday sweets