Southern-Style Pecan Pralines


   

Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine:

  • Both sugars

  • Cream

  • Butter

  • Salt

Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Continue cooking until it reaches about 235°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer — thick and smooth.


Step 4: Add Pecans and Flavor

Once it reaches temperature, remove from heat and stir in:

  • Vanilla extract

  • Pecan halves

Stir quickly — the mixture will start to thicken as it cools. The glossy caramel will turn slightly creamy and grainy, just like authentic Southern pralines should.


Step 5: Drop and Set

Using a spoon, drop small mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet.
Let them cool at room temperature until firm. The result? Buttery pralines with a crisp outside and a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center.


Step 6: Serve or Gift Them 🎁

Once cooled completely, enjoy them with coffee or package them in a pretty tin for holiday gifts. These pralines keep well in an airtight container — though they rarely last that long!


Rich, buttery, and full of Southern charm, these homemade pecan pralines are simple to make but taste like something straight from a New Orleans candy shop. Whether for holidays or everyday sweetness, they’re the perfect indulgence. 🍬✨