Indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness of these Vanilla Pecan Pralines. A perfect blend of creamy vanilla and crunchy pecans, these little bites are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive dessert table, holiday gifting, or simply as a satisfying snack, their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture is bound to win hearts.

Sweet and Creamy Pecan Pralines

Pralines are a classic confection, originating in the Southern United States, known for their buttery texture and nutty flavor. These Vanilla Pecan Pralines combine velvety vanilla with toasted pecans for a soft, candy-like texture that melts on your tongue.

Making them at home is easier than you might think, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a little patience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade sweets for the first time, these pralines will turn out beautifully every time.

Serve them as part of a dessert spread, wrap them up for thoughtful edible gifts, or keep them on hand for whenever a sweet craving strikes. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious treats!

Ingredients for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

To make these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy, nutty masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pecans – Use toasted pecans for a deeper, richer flavor. You’ll need whole or chopped pecans for that satisfying crunch.
Granulated Sugar – The base of the praline, providing the perfect sweetness and caramel-like texture.
Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, molasses flavor that enhances the depth of the candy.
Heavy Cream – Gives the pralines their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Unsalted Butter – A small amount of butter makes these pralines smooth and creamy.
Vanilla Extract – For a rich, aromatic vanilla flavor that ties everything together.
Salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is simple and satisfying. With just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of rich, sweet treats ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pecans and Baking Sheet
Start by toasting your pecans in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re fragrant. Toasting enhances the nutty flavor. Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper to prepare for cooling the pralines later.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly to combine and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously. Once it reaches a rolling boil, lower the heat slightly and let it simmer until it reaches soft ball stage (around 235°F-240°F or 113°C-115°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Pecans
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and toasted pecans. Continue to stir until the mixture begins to thicken slightly and turn glossy.

Step 5: Form the Pralines
Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow for spreading. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop for even portions.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pralines have fully cooled and hardened, they’re ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tip: If the mixture starts to firm up too quickly while scooping, reheat gently over low heat, stirring until it loosens.

How Long to Cook Praline Mixture

The key to perfect Vanilla Pecan Pralines is cooking the mixture to just the right temperature. Overcooking can result in brittle pralines, while undercooking might leave them too soft. Follow these guidelines:

Soft Ball Stage – The mixture must reach between 235°F to 240°F (113°C to 115°C) on a candy thermometer. This ensures the pralines will firm up once cooled but still retain a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Visual Test – If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small spoonful of the mixture into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball that holds its shape but is still slightly squishy.

How to Store Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Pralines are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored properly to maintain their texture and flavor. Here’s how to store them:

At Room Temperature – Place the pralines in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In the Refrigerator – If you live in a warm or humid climate, refrigerate the pralines in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing Pralines – Pralines can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, place in an airtight container, and freeze. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Achieve flawless pralines every time with these helpful tips:

Use a Candy Thermometer – For the most consistent results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (235°F-240°F).
Work Quickly – Once the pecans and vanilla are stirred in, the mixture will begin to cool and harden quickly. Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper without delay.
Toast the Pecans – Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds a subtle crunch that pairs beautifully with the smooth praline texture.
Avoid Humidity – Pralines are sensitive to moisture. If the weather is too humid, they may not set properly or can become sticky. Choose a dry day to make them.
Test Without a Thermometer – If you don’t have a thermometer, use the cold water test. Drop a small amount of the hot mixture into cold water, and it should form a soft, pliable ball that holds its shape.

These tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of creamy texture and rich pecan flavor every time you make Vanilla Pecan Pralines!

Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Author: Sally Thompson
Total Time: 18-24 pralines

Print Recipe

Description

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a melt-in-your-mouth Southern classic, combining the creamy richness of vanilla with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a sweet treat to satisfy cravings, this easy recipe delivers smooth, sweet, and irresistible pralines every time.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups toasted pecans (whole or chopped)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Toast the Pecans – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast the pecans for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients – In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously until smooth.
Bring to Soft Ball Stage – Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and simmer until it reaches 235°F-240°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Stir often.
Add Vanilla and Pecans – Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and salt. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
Form the Pralines – Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared parchment paper. Work quickly before the mixture begins to harden.
Cool and Set – Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature until firm. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Use a candy thermometer for precise results, ensuring the mixture reaches soft ball stage.
If the mixture firms up while scooping, gently reheat over low heat.
Store pralines in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes