Name: Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar; 3/4 cup evaporated milk; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (preferably toasted); 1/8 teaspoon salt

Sweet, creamy, and full of Southern charm, Vanilla Pecan Pralines are the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth treat. With their buttery base and crunchy toasted pecans, these candies bring a delightful blend of richness and texture. Perfect for gifting or savoring at home, each bite tastes like a warm hug from a holiday kitchen.

What makes these pralines stand out is the hint of vanilla that softens the intense sweetness and enhances the nutty pecan flavor. Whether you’re crafting them for the festive season or just because you need a little indulgence, they come together quickly and are incredibly satisfying.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the candy-making magic, gather a few essential tools to make the process smooth and safe:

Heavy-bottomed saucepan: Crucial for even heat distribution to prevent burning the sugar mixture.
Candy thermometer: Ensures you reach the right temperature (235°F for soft-ball stage), which is key to achieving the perfect texture.
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: For consistent stirring without melting or warping.

Baking sheet lined with parchment paper: This is where you’ll drop the pralines to set.
Ice water bowl (optional): A quick way to test the candy consistency if you’re not using a thermometer.

Having everything within reach avoids last-minute scrambling, which is especially helpful since timing is everything in praline-making.

Ingredients for the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Granulated sugar – This is the main structure of the praline. It caramelizes and gives the candy its signature texture.
Light brown sugar – Adds a deeper molasses flavor and richness.
Evaporated milk – Gives the candy creaminess without thinning the mixture too much.

Butter – Provides richness and helps the pralines set smoothly.
Pure vanilla extract – The key flavor note that balances sweetness and complements the pecans.
Pecan halves – The nutty crunch that defines pralines. Toasting them first elevates the flavor.

Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the sweet and nutty notes.

How To Make the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and measure out all your ingredients. Once the pralines are ready, you’ll need to work quickly.

Step 2: Combine and Cook

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.

Step 3: Watch the Temperature

Clip on your candy thermometer. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). This step is vital for the pralines to set correctly.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla and Pecans

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and pecan halves. Continue stirring for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and loses a bit of its gloss.

Step 5: Drop and Set

Using a spoon, quickly drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature until firm and set.

How to Serve and Store Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Serve these delightful pralines on a decorative plate for parties, wrap them in cellophane for thoughtful gifts, or simply keep a jar on your counter for everyday indulgence. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a versatile treat that fits both casual and special occasions.

To store, place pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge with parchment between layers. Avoid humidity—it can soften their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the praline mixture is ready?

Use a candy thermometer and remove the mixture from heat once it hits 235°F. If you don’t have one, drop a small spoonful into cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball.

Why did my pralines turn grainy?

Graininess often happens if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved before boiling or if the mixture wasn’t stirred enough while cooling.

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?

Yes, but it will deepen the molasses flavor. It’s a matter of taste preference.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

Toasting enhances the nuttiness and crunch. It’s optional, but recommended for a richer flavor.

Can I freeze pralines?

Freezing is not ideal as it can alter the texture. Stick to room temperature or refrigerated storage for best results.

Want More Candy Ideas with a Southern Twist?

If you enjoyed these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you might fall in love with these other sweet treats:

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge for a quick, indulgent chocolate fix.

Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy to spice up your candy jar.
Coconut Snowballs for a snowy bite of nostalgia.
Apple Enchiladas if you love caramel and apples in a cozy form.

Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler for fruit-forward comfort.

You can find even more dessert inspiration over on my Pinterest board: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast the pecans or go raw? Did you make them bite-sized or jumbo?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make sweet memories.

Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 20 pralines
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are smooth, creamy, and rich with buttery sweetness and toasted pecans. A classic Southern candy that melts in your mouth with each bite, they’re the perfect treat for holiday gifts, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence at home.