Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a Southern candy classic — smooth, creamy, and packed with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans. Originating in New Orleans, these sweets blend sugar, butter, and milk to create a luscious caramel-like base infused with vanilla. Once dropped onto wax paper, they cool into perfect, velvety rounds that taste like heaven in every bite.
Ingredients**
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 7 oz (about ¾ cup) evaporated milk
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves or pieces
- Pinch of salt
Instructions**
- Prepare your workspace:
Line a baking sheet or countertop with parchment or wax paper. Have all ingredients measured and ready — pralines set quickly! - Cook the base:
In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts and sugar dissolves. - Boil to the right stage:
Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F / 113°C) on a candy thermometer.
Tip: If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a bit into cold water — it should form a soft, pliable ball. - Add flavor and nuts:
Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and pecans. Beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens slightly and loses some gloss — this takes about 2–3 minutes. - Form the pralines:
Quickly spoon the mixture onto your prepared parchment, forming small mounds (about 2 tablespoons each). Work fast — it hardens as it cools. - Cool and set:
Let the pralines rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
Method Tips**
- If the mixture hardens too fast, add a teaspoon of hot water and stir until smooth again.
- Toasting pecans beforehand enhances flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (per praline, approx.)**
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 26g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 1g
Benefits**
- Energy Boost: Rich in natural sugars for quick energy.
- Heart-Healthy Nuts: Pecans add healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Homemade Goodness: Free from preservatives, made with real ingredients.
History**
Pralines trace back to 17th-century France, where they were made with almonds. When French settlers brought the recipe to Louisiana, they swapped almonds for locally abundant pecans, creating the Southern praline we know today — creamy, sweet, and uniquely American.
For the Lovers**
If you adore Southern comfort sweets, you’ll fall in love with these pralines. They’re perfect for gifting, holidays, or a sweet bite after dinner — a little piece of Louisiana charm in every melt-in-your-mouth candy.
Conclusion**
Vanilla Pecan Pralines are more than candy — they’re a warm hug of sugar, butter, and nuts, capturing the soul of the South. Each piece tells a story of tradition, sweetness, and homemade love.
