Classic Southern Pecan Pralines – A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Southern Delight
There’s something truly special about Southern sweets, and these Classic Pecan Pralines are proof that simplicity and love make the best desserts. Sweet, buttery, and nutty with a soft caramelized crunch, they’re a timeless treat that captures the comforting charm of Southern kitchens.
This traditional recipe transforms just a handful of everyday ingredients — sugar, cream, butter, and pecans — into little bites of heaven. Each praline melts in your mouth with a rich, creamy sweetness and the perfect toasted nut flavor. Whether you make them for holidays, gifts, or simply to treat yourself, they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry.
- Quick to make: Just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect texture: Buttery, creamy, and slightly crisp as they cool.
- Ideal for gifting: Wrap them in parchment or cellophane for a lovely homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup half-and-half (or a mix of equal parts milk and cream)
- 1/3 stick (about 40 g) salted butter
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups whole pecans
Instructions
- Prepare your setup:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Keep your candy thermometer ready — it’s your best friend for this recipe. - Cook the base:
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, half-and-half, butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Place over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. - Watch the temperature:
Lower the heat slightly and continue stirring until the mixture reaches 238–241°F (soft ball stage) on the thermometer. The color should turn light caramel and the texture will begin to thicken. - Add the pecans:
Stir in the whole pecans and remove the pot from the heat. Continue stirring constantly until the mixture becomes creamy and starts to lose its shine. - Shape the pralines:
Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work fast — pralines set quickly once they start cooling. - Cool and store:
Let the pralines cool completely until firm. Transfer them to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips for Perfect Pralines
- Use room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or cream can cause the mixture to seize.
- Don’t skip the thermometer: Hitting the correct temperature ensures the pralines set perfectly.
- Work quickly: Once creamy, move fast — they firm up in seconds.
- Customize: Try substituting almonds or pistachios for the pecans, or add a touch of espresso powder for a mocha twist.
Serving Ideas
These pralines are delicious on their own, but they also make a wonderful topping for:
- Vanilla ice cream or butter pecan ice cream
- Pumpkin or sweet potato pie
- Cheesecake or pound cake slices
You can also gift them during the holidays — wrapped beautifully in clear bags tied with a festive ribbon, they make the sweetest homemade present.
Storage
Keep pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If it’s humid, store them in a cool, dry place to prevent stickiness.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 190 kcal | Carbohydrates: 28 g | Fat: 8 g | Sugar: 27 g | Protein: 1 g