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How To Make Pralines

What Are Pralines? And how to Make Them

Pralines are a type of candy originating from France but have become particularly associated with the Southern United States, especially New Orleans. They are made from nuts and sugar syrup, most commonly featuring pecans, butter, and cream to create a rich, sweet confection that’s both crunchy and creamy.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 18 pralines 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups pecans (halved or chopped)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine both sugars and milk. Stir continuously until the sugars have dissolved.
  2. Add the butter and bring to a boil. Continue boiling without stirring until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (238-240°F on a candy thermometer).
  3. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and pecans. Stir vigorously until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy and cloudy.
  4. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Allow the pralines to cool and harden (about 20-30 minutes).
  5. Once set, pralines can be removed and stored in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Pralines are best enjoyed fresh, within a few days of making them.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the milk.
  • Be careful when working with hot sugar, as it can cause severe burns.
  • Humidity can affect the setting of pralines; a drier day is ideal for making them.
  • Author: Amelia Wilkins
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert/Candy
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Southern United States/French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 praline
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Pralines, Southern Candy, Pecan Pralines, Sweet Treats, Homemade Candy