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New Orleans Pecan Pralines

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These New Orleans pecan pralines are classic Southern candies made with caramelized sugar, cream, butter, and crunchy pecans, creating a sweet and melt-in-your-mouth treat.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 18–24 pralines
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Toast pecans lightly in a dry skillet or oven until fragrant. Set aside.
  2. In a heavy saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, and butter.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until mixture reaches 235–240°F (113–115°C), the soft-ball stage.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, salt, and toasted pecans.
  5. Continue stirring until mixture thickens slightly and turns creamy.
  6. Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper. Let set until firm, about 20–30 minutes.

Notes

  • Add a dash of bourbon or cinnamon for extra flavor.
  • Dip pralines halfway in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
  • Use evaporated milk instead of cream for a softer, more traditional praline.
  • Avoid over-stirring or scraping pan sides to prevent grainy texture.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer storage.

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