Southern Pecan Pralines are a rich and buttery Southern candy, traditionally made with sugar, cream, butter, and pecans. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are known for their creamy texture and toasted pecan crunch, making them a nostalgic favorite throughout the Southern United States. Perfect for the holidays, gifting, or satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Pecan Pralines are the ultimate indulgence for any dessert lover. They combine the nutty crunch of toasted pecans with a silky, buttery candy coating that is both decadent and satisfying. This recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires only a few ingredients, making it an ideal treat for novice and experienced candy makers alike. Whether you’re preparing a holiday platter or simply want to impress guests, these pralines deliver every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Heavy cream
- Unsalted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Pecan halves
Directions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
- Stir continuously until the mixture reaches a soft ball stage (approximately 235°F on a candy thermometer).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecan halves.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Quickly spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds.
- Allow the pralines to cool and harden at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 18–24 pralines, depending on size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled pralines for an elegant twist.
- Spiced Pralines: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm spice flavor.
- Maple Flavor: Replace half of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Coconut Pralines: Stir in a small amount of shredded coconut for added texture and a hint of tropical flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To extend shelf life, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. These candies are best enjoyed at room temperature. Do not reheat pralines, as they may melt and lose their shape.
FAQs
What is the texture of a Southern praline?
Southern pralines have a creamy, fudge-like texture with a slight crunch from the pecans.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for richness and texture, but whole milk can be used in a pinch, though the final result may be less creamy.
Why did my pralines turn out grainy?
Grainy pralines usually result from overcooking the sugar or not stirring enough during cooling.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
While not strictly necessary, a candy thermometer ensures the sugar reaches the correct stage for the perfect texture.
Can I use chopped pecans instead of halves?
Yes, chopped pecans will work, though the pralines will have a more textured appearance.
Are pralines gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always verify your ingredients to be sure.
Can I freeze pralines?
Yes, place them in an airtight container with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How long does it take for pralines to harden?
Pralines usually take about 30 minutes to firm up at room temperature.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be sure your saucepan is large enough and stir continuously to avoid scorching.
Why are my pralines sticky?
Sticky pralines may indicate the mixture wasn’t cooked long enough or didn’t reach the soft ball stage.
Conclusion
Southern Pecan Pralines are a beloved Southern confection that combines simple ingredients into an irresistibly rich and nutty treat. Whether enjoyed as a personal indulgence or shared during festive gatherings, these pralines are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. With this recipe, you can bring a classic taste of the South into your own kitchen with ease.
Print
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 20 pralines
Description
Indulge in the sweet, buttery charm of Southern Pecan Pralines – a classic Southern candy treat loaded with toasted pecans and rich caramel flavor. Perfect for holiday gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth, this easy praline recipe melts in your mouth with every bite. Best pecan pralines recipe for Southern dessert lovers!
Ingredients
-
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
-
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
-
1 cup evaporated milk
-
4 tbsp unsalted butter
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2 cups pecan halves
-
Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
-
In a medium saucepan, combine sugars, evaporated milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir continuously.
-
Bring to a boil and cook until mixture reaches soft-ball stage (235°F/113°C on a candy thermometer).
-
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, salt, and pecans.
-
Beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens and becomes creamy (about 3–5 minutes).
-
Quickly drop spoonfuls onto the prepared sheet.
Notes
-
Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances flavor.
-
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
-
Do not over-stir after mixture cools or pralines will become grainy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes