Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, and butter over medium heat.
- Stir constantly as the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and continue stirring until it reaches 235–240°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and salt (if using), then add pecans.
- Continue stirring off heat until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper or a greased baking sheet.
- Let cool and set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use evaporated milk for a slightly firmer praline.
- Toast pecans beforehand for added depth of flavor.
- Try a pinch of cinnamon or splash of bourbon for variation.
- Test soft ball stage by dropping mixture in cold water—it should form a pliable ball.
- Work quickly once mixture thickens—it sets fast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
