Description
Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern candy made with toasted pecans, creamy vanilla, brown sugar, and butter. This melt-in-your-mouth praline recipe is the perfect no-bake treat for holidays, gifting, or whenever you’re craving something rich and nutty. Learn how to make the best pralines with simple ingredients and no candy thermometer required.
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1⁄2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1⁄2 cups pecan halves
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Prepare a tablespoon or small cookie scoop for shaping the pralines.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan halves for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Set aside.
3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir over medium heat until the sugars dissolve and the mixture starts to bubble.
4. Add in the butter and continue stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and salt. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and begins to thicken.
6. Quickly spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds. Let cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until set.
Notes
Make sure to toast the pecans for extra depth of flavor.
Work quickly once the mixture thickens—pralines set fast.
Store in a dry, airtight container to keep the texture perfect.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg