Louisiana Caramel Pralines
Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of Louisiana Caramel Pralines, a classic Southern confection that combines velvety caramel and crunchy pecans for the ultimate decadent treat. Made with a luscious blend of granulated sugar, light brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter, these pralines are cooked to perfection, reaching the ideal soft-ball stage for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. A touch of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of kosher salt highlight the nuttiness of the pecan halves, creating a beautifully balanced flavor. Perfect for gifting, holiday gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth, these homemade pralines require minimal prep time and come together seamlessly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. With their authentic New Orleans charm, these candies are sure to be a showstopper in any dessert spread!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Stir well to mix.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved.
Continue cooking the mixture until it reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, while stirring frequently to prevent burning. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract, pecan halves, and kosher salt.
Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim to create small mounds or discs about 2 inches apart.
Allow the pralines to cool and set at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Once completely set, carefully lift the pralines off the parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5062 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 291.2 g | 373% | |
| Saturated Fat | 90.4 g | 452% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 364 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 285 mg | 12% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 632.5 g | 230% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.6 g | 77% | |
| Total Sugars | 609.3 g | ||
| Protein | 21.2 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 298 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 6.1 mg | 34% | |
| Potassium | 1199 mg | 26% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
