Description
Louisiana’s classic vanilla pecan pralines deliver sweet Southern hospitality on a single candy plate. Creamy caramel-like confections blend rich pecans with smooth vanilla, promising delightful comfort in each delicate bite you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup (240 g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Gently roast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until aromatic and lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring consistently until butter completely melts and sugar dissolves smoothly.
- Increase heat and bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook without stirring, allowing temperature to reach 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Immediately remove saucepan from heat source. Quickly incorporate toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a delicate pinch of salt. Stir vigorously to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Using a spoon, carefully drop praline mixture onto parchment paper or silicone baking mat, creating uniform circular shapes. Allow pralines to cool and solidify at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Once pralines have completely hardened and set, transfer to a serving plate. Consume within one week, storing in an airtight container to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
Notes
- Toasting pecans intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the pralines, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure precise temperature control, preventing sugar crystallization and achieving the perfect soft-ball stage.
- For a gluten-free option, verify that all ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this treat suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with alternative nuts like almonds or walnuts to create unique flavor variations while maintaining the classic praline texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg