There’s something truly magical about the sweet and nutty flavor of Southern Pecan Pralines. These delightful treats, with their perfect balance of brown sugar and butter, will transport you straight to the heart of the South with each melt-in-your-mouth bite. A cross between candy and cookie, pecan pralines are the epitome of indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Once you try these Southern Pecan Pralines, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with the crunch of pecans makes them utterly irresistible. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium-sized pot
- Rubber spatula
- Thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Tablespoon-sized scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 1 cup (225g) packed light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
- 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups (212g) pecan halves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Set out parchment paper for the pralines and have a tablespoon-sized scoop ready.
- Add everything except the pecans, salt, and vanilla extract to a medium pot and heat over medium heat. Stir regularly until it begins to foam and boil.
- When it begins to foam and boil, stir constantly until it reaches 236 degrees.
- Remove from heat and add the pecans, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Stir vigorously with a rubber spatula for 3 1/2 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. The longer you stir, the thicker the mixture gets.
- Quickly drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto parchment paper and allow them to cool and firm. If the mixture is too thin and spreads more than you want, stir a little bit more. If it starts to cool too much as you scoop, place it back on the warm burner to keep the mixture warmer.
- When pralines are cool and firm, store them in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to stir constantly once the mixture starts boiling to prevent burning.
- Be quick when dropping the mixture onto parchment paper as it sets quickly.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
- Try using dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these pecan pralines is a treat, so enjoy them in moderation. They’re rich in flavor and a great source of energy due to their sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted to control the saltiness of the pralines.
How long do pecan pralines stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, they can stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze pecan pralines?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to defrost them completely before serving.
Conclusion
Ready to indulge in a taste of the South? These Southern Pecan Pralines are calling your name! Give this recipe a try, and let the rich, buttery goodness captivate your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your praline-making adventures with us in the comments below!