Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a sweet, nutty treat that melts in your mouth, this Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe is seriously going to become your new favorite. I absolutely love how these pralines have just the right balance of creamy caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans. When I first tried making them at home, I was amazed at how simple it is — and how spectacular they taste. Stick with me here, and I’ll help you nail the perfect candy every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe lies in the simple yet rich combination of sugars, butter, and pecans that come together to create an irresistible candy. Be sure to pick good-quality pecans for the best taste and texture. Here’s what I usually grab when I’m ready to make these pralines.

• Granulated sugar: Gives the pralines that classic sweetness and helps with caramelization.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor that complements pecans perfectly.
• Evaporated milk: Makes the candy creamy and smooth without being too liquidy.
• Unsalted butter: Use room temperature butter for even melting and richness.
• Baking soda: Just a pinch helps soften the candy, giving it that perfect chewy texture.
• Pecan halves: These add the crunch and nutty flavor that pralines are famous for.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
• Salt: Balances all the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Variations

I love how versatile this Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe is — you can really make it your own depending on what you have or the flavor profile you’re craving. Feel free to experiment and do what suits your taste buds!

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg: I tried this once and it added a lovely warm spice note that made the pralines taste even more decadent.
• Use other nuts: If you’re not a pecan fan or want a mix, walnuts or almonds work beautifully.
• Swap evaporated milk for coconut milk: For a dairy-free twist — it’s a bit richer and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
• Make mini pralines: Reduce the spoonful size for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or lunchboxes.

How to Make Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Start by lining a half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper. I always prepare this ahead of time because when your pralines are ready, you’ll want to scoop and drop quickly before the mixture hardens. Trust me, this step will save you a lot of frustration later!

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

Combine granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, evaporated milk, room temperature butter, and baking soda in a large pot. Place a candy thermometer on the pot and heat over medium, stirring regularly. You want everything melted and bubbling, but don’t rush this part. When the mixture hits 236°F (that’s the soft-ball stage), you’re just about there. Stir constantly as you approach this temperature so it doesn’t burn or stick.

Step 3: Stir in Flavor and Nuts

Remove the pot from heat and immediately add the pecan halves, vanilla extract, and salt. This step is where the magic happens — stir vigorously for about 3 minutes until the mixture thickens but remains workable. You’ll notice the sugar starting to crystallize lightly, giving you that fudgy praline texture we want. I found that a wooden spoon works great here for a good grip and even mixing.

Step 4: Spoon and Set

Spray two spoons lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then use them to scoop heaping spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Work quickly but carefully! Leave some space between each praline because they won’t spread much as they cool. Let them sit at room temperature until they harden, which usually takes about an hour.

How to Serve Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it classic with these beauties — no need for extra garnishes. But if I’m feeling fancy, I sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt right after spooning to add a salty contrast that makes the sweet nutty flavors pop even more.

Side Dishes

These pralines shine as a sweet snack or dessert all on their own, but if you want to pair them, try serving next to a strong cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Personally, my family loves ending holiday dinners with pralines alongside a simple whipped cream-topped latte.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to wrap individual pralines in colorful wax paper and tie with twine for a charming homemade gift. They also look adorable stacked in a glass jar or pretty tin — a sweet treat that doubles as decor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Easy Pecan Pralines have cooled completely, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. I store mine in an airtight container at room temperature, and they stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 weeks – perfect for keeping around for everyday indulgence or unexpected guests!

Freezing

Freezing pralines works surprisingly well. After wrapping each in cling wrap, put them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, I recommend thawing them overnight in the fridge, then letting them come to room temperature before enjoying. This keeps them tasting just as fresh as the day you made them.

Reheating

I don’t usually reheat pralines since they’re perfect at room temp, but if you want softer candy, pop them in a warm (not hot) oven for just a few minutes wrapped in foil—watch carefully so they don’t melt completely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pecan Pralines Recipe feels like a little sweet celebration every time I make it. They’re nostalgic, comforting, and just downright delicious. I hope you’ll find the same joy in making these pralines as I do sharing them. Once you get the hang of the process, it’s a breeze and perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Go ahead, make a batch and enjoy every crunchy, buttery bite—you won’t regret it!

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