If you’ve ever bitten into a creamy, nutty candy and thought, “I need this in my life,” you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing my go-to pecan pralines recipe—one that’s simple, sweet, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a home baker looking for a treat, these creamy pecan pralines are a delight.
What Are Pecan Pralines?
Pecan pralines are a classic candy with roots in Louisiana, particularly New Orleans. They’re made from sugar, butter, cream, and pecans, cooked together until thick and creamy. Unlike some other candies, pralines are soft and slightly crumbly, melting in your mouth with every bite.
If you’ve tried New Orleans pralines before, you know they’re rich but never overwhelming. Homemade pecan pralines allow you to adjust sweetness and texture. You can make them creamy or slightly firm, depending on preference.
Ingredients for Homemade Pecan Pralines
For the best creamy pecan pralines, you’ll need:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans (toasted for more flavor)
Optional: a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
These ingredients are simple, but the combination produces candy that’s deeply satisfying. Toasting the pecans enhances their natural flavor and gives your praline pecans a slightly caramelized crunch.
Step-by-Step Pecan Pralines Recipe
Here’s how I make homemade pralines pecans that are smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough:
1. Prep Your Pecans
Start by toasting your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This step brings out their flavor. Set them aside while you prepare the candy.
2. Combine Sugars and Cream
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. This is the base of your praline candy.
3. Cook to Soft-Ball Stage
Bring the mixture to a boil. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 234–240°F (soft-ball stage). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.
4. Add Butter and Vanilla
Once your sugar mixture reaches the right temperature, remove it from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Fold in Pecans
Add the toasted pecans to the mixture. Stir quickly—this is the moment your pecan pralines recipe begins to take shape.
6. Drop Onto Parchment Paper
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the candy onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature. Within 30 minutes to an hour, your creamy pralines recipe will be ready to enjoy.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pralines
- Use fresh cream – It makes your pralines smoother and richer.
- Don’t over-stir – Once the sugar reaches the soft-ball stage, over-stirring can make the candy grainy.
- Toast the pecans – This extra step adds flavor and crunch.
- Work quickly – The candy sets fast. Be ready to spoon onto parchment paper once you mix in the pecans.
- Adjust sweetness – Taste as you go. Some like creamy pecan pralines sweeter, others prefer them slightly nut-forward.
Variations of This Pecan Pralines Recipe
The beauty of praline recipes is their versatility. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Pecan Pralines: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the sugar mixture.
- Praline Walnut Recipe: Swap pecans for walnuts for a different twist.
- Spiced Pralines: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
- Mini Pralines: Use a small ice cream scoop for bite-sized treats.
These variations allow you to experiment without straying from the classic Southern pecan praline style.
Storing and Serving Pecan Pralines
Once cooled, store your homemade pecan pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. Serve them alongside coffee, tea, or even crumble them over ice cream for a delightful crunch.
If you want candied praline pecans for salads or snacking, follow the same recipe but skip adding heavy cream. You’ll end up with crunchy, caramelized nuts.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this easy pecan praline recipe a favorite is its balance. You get rich, creamy candy without being overly sugary. The pecans provide texture, while the smooth candy base melts on your tongue. It’s a true Southern classic and a sweet tooth dream come true.
This Louisiana pralines recipe is approachable for beginners yet satisfying for seasoned candy lovers. By following these steps, you can make classic candy in your own kitchen, just like you’d find in New Orleans candy shops.
Pecan Pralines
Ingredients
Method
- Place pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring mixture to a boil. Cook until it reaches 234–240°F (soft-ball stage). Test by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
- Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Quickly add toasted pecans. Stir well to coat all nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature until set (about 30–60 minutes).
Notes
- Work quickly after adding pecans—the candy sets fast.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- You can adjust sweetness or make chocolate/spiced variations if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Butter gives the pralines their creamy texture and flavor. Margarine can work, but the candy may be less rich.
Q: How do I know when the sugar reaches the soft-ball stage?
A: Use a candy thermometer at 234–240°F, or drop a small amount into cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Keep pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Q: What’s the best way to toast pecans?
A: Use a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
Q: Can I add chocolate to my pralines?
A: Yes! Add cocoa powder during cooking or drizzle melted chocolate on top once cooled.
