Old Fashioned Pralines
Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of Old Fashioned Pralines, a classic Southern candy recipe that pairs caramelized brown sugar with crunchy pecans for a melt-in-your-mouth treat. These homemade pralines are crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients like granulated sugar, salted butter, and heavy cream, cooked to perfection at the soft-ball stage for that iconic texture. The recipe’s quick prep time and detailed steps make it easy to create these delightful pecan confections in just 30 minutes. Finished with a touch of vanilla for warmth and depth, these pralines are perfect for gifting, holiday desserts, or satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you're a candy-making novice or a seasoned pro, this nostalgic recipe captures the timeless flavor of the South. Bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen with these irresistible Old Fashioned Pralines!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 4 tablespoons Salted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups Pecans
- 0.25 teaspoons Salt
Instructions
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set this aside for later.
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, salted butter, and salt.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugars dissolve and the mixture becomes smooth.
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, making sure it does not touch the bottom of the pot. Cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). This should take about 10-12 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly for about 2 minutes.
Stir in the vanilla extract and pecans using a wooden spoon. Continue to stir vigorously until the mixture begins to thicken and lose its glossy sheen. This process helps the pralines to set correctly.
Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming individual praline candies. Work quickly, as the mixture will harden as it cools.
Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature. They will harden as they cool, creating their iconic texture.
Once cooled, carefully lift the pralines off the parchment paper or baking mat. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4677 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 270.1 g | 346% | |
| Saturated Fat | 89.5 g | 447% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 43.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 362 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 1074 mg | 47% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 570.5 g | 207% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.2 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 549.2 g | ||
| Protein | 18.8 g | 38% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 275 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 6.1 mg | 34% | |
| Potassium | 1036 mg | 22% | |
*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.
