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Pecan Pralines on a white surface, surrounded by pecans.
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5 from 3 votes

Pecan Pralines

Sweet and salty pecan pralines are the most irresistible mix of crunchy and melt-in-your-mouth. You'll love these easy-to-make treats! 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Cooling Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American, French
Diet: Gluten Free
Servings: 24 pralines
Author: Rachel Gurk

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions

  • In a 3-quart heavy saucepan, combine butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, baking soda, salt, and corn syrup if using (see note). Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a rolling boil, about 5 to 6 minutes.
  • Stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer in the mixture. Heat until the mixture reaches 235℉-240℉ or “soft ball” stage. The mixture will bubble up quite a bit and be very foamy. Reaching soft ball stage will take about 4 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 5 minutes.
  • While the mixture is cooling, cover counter surface or 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Stir in vanilla and pecan halves. Continue stirring until the mixture slightly thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  • After about 1 minute, using a cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), drop the nut mixture onto the prepared parchment. If it is pooling and fails to hold shape, it’s not quite ready. (If you don't have a cookie scoop, use 2 spoons: one spoon to scoop, one spoon to push the mixture out.)
  • Let the pralines cool for at least 15 minutes. Enjoy a warm praline or allow them to cool completely, about 45 minutes.

Notes

  • Adding corn syrup: To reduce crystallization (white spots), add 1 tablespoon light corn syrup. This is an optional ingredient because minimal crystallization is normal and does not affect the flavor of the pralines.
  • Storage: Once they are completely cool, place pralines in an airtight container or bag. They'll keep at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up two months.
  • If you prefer, substitute 2 cups of walnuts or another nut of your choice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1praline | Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 54mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 172IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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