Want a sweet treat that melts in your mouth? Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe are perfect for you. These creamy candies combine butter, sugar, and crunchy pecans.
The vanilla adds a warm, cozy flavor. Making vanilla pecan pralines recipe at home is easier than you think. You don’t need fancy skills or equipment.
Just follow simple steps and enjoy delicious results. This classic Southern candy makes great gifts too.
Your friends and family will love them. Let’s learn how to make vanilla pecan pralines today.
When I First Discovered Vanilla Pecan Pralines
I tried my first praline at a small candy shop. The owner was making them fresh that day. The smell of caramelized sugar filled the air.
I took one bite and fell in love instantly. The creamy texture was amazing. The pecans added perfect crunch. I asked her for the recipe right away.
She smiled and shared her family secret. Now I make these pralines all the time. They remind me of that special day. Every batch brings back sweet memories.
Equipment List
You need basic kitchen tools for this recipe. Here’s what to gather:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Candy thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Baking sheet
Ingredients You Need for Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Gather these simple ingredients for vanilla pecan pralines:
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Guide
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set it near your cooking area.
- Have your spoon ready to go.
- Put both sugars in your saucepan.
- Add the heavy cream slowly.
- Stir until everything mixes well.
- Turn heat to medium.
- Stir constantly while the mixture heats up.
- Attach your candy thermometer to the pan.
- Cook until it reaches 236°F (soft ball stage).
- This takes about 15 minutes.
- Don’t rush this step.
- Remove pan from heat immediately.
- Add butter and vanilla extract.
- Stir until butter melts completely.
- The mixture will look smooth and glossy.
- Add your pecans and salt now.
- Stir quickly but carefully.
- The mixture will start to thicken.
- Keep stirring until it loses its shine.
- Work fast now.
- Drop spoonfuls onto your prepared baking sheet.
- Make them about 2 inches wide.
- Let them cool completely at room temperature.
- This takes about 30 minutes.
Tips to Make the Best Vanilla Pecan Pralines
- Use fresh pecans for better flavor.
- Stale nuts ruin the taste.
- Toast your pecans lightly before adding them.
- This brings out their natural oils.
- Don’t skip the candy thermometer.
- Temperature matters a lot here.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Work quickly when dropping the pralines.
- They set up fast.
- Store them in an airtight container.
- They stay fresh for two weeks.
FAQs about Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Q: Why did my pralines turn out grainy?
A: You cooked the sugar too long. The temperature got too high probably.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Heavy cream works best for smooth texture. Milk makes them less creamy overall.
Q: How do I know when they’re ready?
A: The mixture loses its shine completely. It looks thick and slightly dull.
Q: Can I freeze pralines?
A: Yes, they freeze well for months. Wrap them individually in plastic first.
Q: What if my pralines won’t harden?
A: You didn’t cook them long enough. The temperature was probably too low.
Final Thoughts
Making vanilla pecan pralines recipe is truly rewarding. These sweet candies taste better than store-bought. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing.
Share them with people you love. They make wonderful homemade gifts anytime. Practice makes perfect with this recipe.
Don’t worry if your first batch isn’t perfect. Keep trying and you’ll improve quickly. Soon you’ll be a praline expert.
Enjoy every delicious, creamy bite. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
More Amazing Recipes
- Martha Stewart French Toast Recipe
- Martha Stewart Blueberry Muffins Recipe
- Martha Stewart Egg Strata Recipe
- Martha Stewart Blueberry Muffins Recipe
Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Candy thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set it near your cooking area.
- Have your spoon ready to go.
- Put both sugars in your saucepan.
- Add the heavy cream slowly.
- Stir until everything mixes well.
- Turn heat to medium.
- Stir constantly while the mixture heats up.
- Attach your candy thermometer to the pan.
- Cook until it reaches 236°F (soft ball stage).
- This takes about 15 minutes.
- Don’t rush this step.
- Remove pan from heat immediately.
- Add butter and vanilla extract.
- Stir until butter melts completely.
- The mixture will look smooth and glossy.
- Add your pecans and salt now.
- Stir quickly but carefully.
- The mixture will start to thicken.
- Keep stirring until it loses its shine.
- Work fast now.
- Drop spoonfuls onto your prepared baking sheet.
- Make them about 2 inches wide.
- Let them cool completely at room temperature.
- This takes about 30 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh pecans for better flavor.
- Stale nuts ruin the taste.
- Toast your pecans lightly before adding them.
- This brings out their natural oils.
- Don’t skip the candy thermometer.
- Temperature matters a lot here.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Work quickly when dropping the pralines.
- They set up fast.
- Store them in an airtight container.
- They stay fresh for two weeks.
