Vanilla Pecan Pralines

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Rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a Southern-inspired treat you’ll find yourself craving over and over again. These golden clusters of candied pecans nestled in a sweet vanilla-infused caramel are a comforting bite of nostalgia. Whether you grew up with pralines in your grandmother’s kitchen or you’re just discovering their magic, this recipe is as rewarding to make as it is to eat.

The combination of sugar, butter, and cream cooked to just the right temperature creates a smooth texture that sets perfectly, holding roasted pecans in a creamy, almost fudge-like bite. They make beautiful gifts, lovely additions to dessert platters, or an indulgent treat to keep for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

This recipe captures everything there is to adore about pralines: they’re rich, nutty, and layered with the warm aroma of vanilla. It only takes a few simple ingredients to create an impressive candy that’s bound to get compliments. They set up quickly with no candy thermometer required if you follow the visual cues, making it an approachable dessert even for first-time candy makers.

What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Fresh, halved pecans are ideal for this recipe. They hold their shape beautifully and offer a nice crunch that contrasts the creamy praline base. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the candy mixture deepens their flavor and adds a bit of extra richness. If you want a softer bite, you can use chopped pecans, but the halves create that classic look.

Ingredients for the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

The ingredients for this praline recipe are straightforward and pantry-friendly, but each one plays an important role in building the texture and flavor.

Granulated sugar gives the pralines their sweet base and caramelization.

Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses depth and a softer texture.

Heavy cream provides richness and helps create the smooth, creamy base.

Unsalted butter lends a buttery backbone to the entire candy.

Vanilla extract adds warmth and aromatic sweetness to the pralines.

Pecans (halves or pieces) are the star of the show, bringing crunch and nuttiness.

Salt helps balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor.

How To Make the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and have a tablespoon or small cookie scoop ready. This recipe sets quickly, so preparation is key.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. When they become fragrant and lightly browned, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Sugars and Cream

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugars dissolve and the mixture starts to bubble.

Step 4: Add Butter and Boil

Add in the butter and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently and let it boil for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Finish the Mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and a pinch of salt. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 6: Drop the Pralines

Quickly spoon the praline mixture onto the prepared parchment paper in small mounds. Let them cool at room temperature for 20-30 minutes until set.

How to Serve and Store Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are wonderful served as an after-dinner sweet or as part of a festive dessert tray. They also make charming edible gifts when wrapped in clear bags or nestled in tins. This recipe makes about 18-20 pralines depending on size, easily serving 8 to 10 people.

To store, place the pralines in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They will keep at room temperature for up to a week or can be refrigerated for longer freshness. Avoid humid environments to maintain their texture.

What to Serve With Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Coffee or Espresso

The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweet, rich flavors of the pralines perfectly.

Bourbon or Whiskey

A smooth bourbon makes a decadent pairing, bringing out the caramel notes.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Break up pralines and sprinkle them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible crunch.

Cheese Board

Add pralines to a cheese board alongside sharp cheddar and brie for a sweet and savory contrast.

Apple Slices

Crisp, tart apple slices provide a refreshing bite that cuts through the praline’s richness.

Hot Chocolate

Drop a praline into a mug of hot chocolate for a delightful twist.

Southern Iced Tea

A classic sweet tea offers a smooth sip alongside this Southern candy favorite.

Want More Candy Ideas with a Southern Twist?

If you loved these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’ll want to try these other delicious treats next:

• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for a moist, nutty bite.
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy if you crave something spicy-sweet.
• Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats for chewy, caramel goodness.
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles when you want that creamy center.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to repurpose treats into something new.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist like maple or bourbon? Did you swap in walnuts? I’d love to hear how you made these your own.

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