Easy Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern treat made with buttery caramelized sugar, crunchy pecans, and a rich, smooth texture that melts in your mouth. This simple recipe is perfect for making at home in just a few steps. Whether you’re looking for a homemade gift or a sweet indulgence for yourself, these Easy Pecan Pralines are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Substitutions
Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a slightly lighter version.
Vanilla extract: You can also use maple syrup or almond extract to change up the flavor profile of the pralines.
How to Make Easy Pecan Pralines
Prepare the pecans: Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, just until fragrant. This step adds extra flavor to the pralines, but you can skip it if you prefer.
Cook the caramel mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Simmer: Once the mixture comes to a boil, lower the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, continuing to stir, until the caramel thickens slightly.
Add the pecans and vanilla: Stir in the toasted pecans and vanilla extract, mixing until the pecans are well-coated with the caramel.
Spoon the pralines onto wax paper: Drop spoonfuls of the pecan mixture onto a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to form small, round pralines. Let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set.
Serve: Once cooled, enjoy your homemade Easy Pecan Pralines! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Mix-ins
Chocolate: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines or mix chocolate chips into the caramel before setting.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.
Toffee: Stir in bits of crushed toffee candy for added crunch and sweetness.
Recipe Tips
Watch the caramel closely: It’s important to keep a close eye on the caramel as it simmers to avoid burning. Stir constantly while the sugar dissolves and caramelizes.
Test the consistency: To check if the caramel is ready, drop a small spoonful into a glass of cold water. If it hardens quickly and forms a soft ball, it’s ready for the pecans.
Cooling time: Be patient while the pralines cool on the wax paper. If they don’t set right away, let them cool for a bit longer to ensure they firm up.
Storage
Store Easy Pecan Pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, but make sure they come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
Caramel Pecan Pralines: Skip the heavy cream and use sweetened condensed milk instead for a richer, creamier texture.
Peanut Pralines: Substitute pecans with roasted peanuts for a salty-sweet twist.
Maple Pecan Pralines: Use maple syrup in place of vanilla extract to add a warm, maple flavor to the pralines.
FAQs
Can I make these pralines ahead of time?
Yes, Easy Pecan Pralines can be made up to a week in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Can I freeze pecan pralines?
Yes, you can freeze pecan pralines for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Why didn’t my pralines harden?
If your pralines didn’t harden, the caramel mixture may not have reached the correct temperature or wasn’t simmered long enough. Try again and make sure the caramel thickens before adding the pecans.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer a less salty flavor. Just make sure to add a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture to balance the sweetness.
Easy Pecan Pralines
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Wax paper or parchment paper
- Large spoon or ice cream scoop
- Candy thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly and reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let the pralines cool for about 15 minutes, until they firm up.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, let the praline mixture cool for a minute or two before dropping it onto the wax paper.
- You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- These pralines can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
