Real Deal Pralines
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of *Real Deal Pralines*, the ultimate Southern treat that melts in your mouth with every bite. Crafted with a luscious blend of granulated sugar, light brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and milk, these pralines strike the perfect balance of creamy decadence and nutty crunch. The addition of aromatic pure vanilla extract and toasted pecan halves takes these confections to a whole new level of flavor. With a short prep time and straightforward candy-making techniques, this recipe is approachable for beginners while delivering professional-quality results. Perfect for gifting, holiday spreads, or a sweet indulgence to enjoy at home, these real deal pralines are a timeless classic your taste buds will thank you for.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups light brown sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.25 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups pecan halves
- 0.25 teaspoons kosher salt
Instructions
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsalted butter, heavy cream, whole milk, and kosher salt.
Stir the mixture gently over medium heat until the sugars and butter are fully melted and combined, about 3-4 minutes.
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring the tip is submerged in the mixture but not touching the bottom of the pan.
Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). This will take approximately 8-10 minutes. If necessary, reduce the heat slightly to prevent scorching.
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately.
Stir in the pure vanilla extract and pecan halves. Continue stirring vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken and lose its gloss.
Working quickly, use a small spoon or cookie scoop to drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim for 2-inch mounds, leaving space between each one.
Allow the pralines to cool at room temperature for 30-40 minutes, or until firm and set.
Carefully peel the pralines off the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3557 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 212.4 g | 272% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.9 g | 320% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 251 mg | 84% | |
| Sodium | 219 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 427.4 g | 155% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.2 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 409.6 g | ||
| Protein | 18.0 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 207 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 802 mg | 17% | |
*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.
