Name: Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the creamy-crunchy magic of Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines! This southern favorite turns just a handful of humble ingredients into something unforgettable: a melt-in-your-mouth candy with toasted pecans, ribbons of caramel, and a deep vanilla aroma. Each bite delivers that signature praline texture—slightly crumbly on the outside, melt-away tender inside, and bursting with buttery, nutty goodness. Whether you’re new to pralines or already a devotee, you’ll adore how easy and tempting these are to whip up right at home.

Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple pantry staples are all you need for Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines, but every ingredient pulls its weight in making these candies utterly irresistible. Let’s look at each one and why it matters for flavor, texture, or the gorgeous golden color.

Granulated sugar: The foundation for pralines, giving them their classic sweetness and crystalline texture.
Light brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses depth and beautiful caramel color that makes these pralines extra special.
Heavy cream: Provides creaminess—it softens the bite and ensures the candies aren’t dry or overly hard.
Unsalted butter: Brings out a luxurious richness while letting you control the salt level.
Pure vanilla extract: The signature vanilla note is key for deep, fragrant sweetness throughout the praline.
Pecan halves (lightly toasted): A must for crunch and nutty aroma—toast them just enough to enhance flavor!
Pinch of salt: A tiny bit makes all the flavors pop and stops the candy from being cloyingly sweet.

How to Make Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, then set it aside within arm’s reach. Praline-making moves fast once the mixture is ready, so you want your landing zone ready to go. This ensures your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines won’t stick and will set up perfectly.

Step 2: Combine and Cook the Sugars, Cream, and Butter

Add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until everything is smooth and well-blended. This slow melt dissolves the sugar crystals and brings out a glossy base—the golden start that will define your pralines’ luscious texture.

Step 3: Bring the Mixture to Soft-Ball Stage

Clip your candy thermometer to the pan and keep stirring as you watch the temperature climb. When it reaches 240°F (the soft-ball stage), you’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly thicker and more fragrant. Hitting this precise temp guarantees your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines set up properly—don’t rush this part!

Step 4: Add the Vanilla, Pecans, and Salt

Take the saucepan off the heat immediately and stir in the pure vanilla extract, toasted pecan halves, and a pinch of salt. Adding these now lets the vanilla bloom and the pecans stay crisp. This is where everything really comes together in a swirl of familiar southern comfort.

Step 5: Cool Briefly, Then Stir to Thicken

Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes. Then, grab a wooden spoon and beat the mixture vigorously—this quick action agitates the candy just enough so it turns a little cloudy and thickens. That’s your cue you’re seconds away from praline perfection!

Step 6: Shape and Cool Your Pralines

With a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the hot candy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them so they don’t run into each other. Leave them to cool for around 30 minutes—once fully set, each Classic Vanilla Pecan Praline will be rich, glossy, and ready to devour.

How to Serve Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar makes your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines look positively fetching and adds a final pop of flavor. If you want to lean into indulgence, drizzle with a thread of melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish!

Side Dishes

While these pralines are a sweet stand-alone treat, they also pair beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or alongside a cup of rich, hot coffee. For a party platter, serve them with fresh berries or slices of apple for a fun contrast of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try nestling each Classic Vanilla Pecan Praline in mini cupcake liners for a polished, gift-worthy presentation—perfect for holidays or showers. Or pack them into a mason jar, tie with a ribbon, and deliver to friends and family as the ultimate homemade surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week and are perfect for gifting, snacking, or sneaking a little sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.

Freezing

For longer storage, individually wrap each praline in wax paper and tuck them into a freezer-safe container. Frozen pralines will keep their texture and taste for up to two months—just bring to room temperature before you serve or enjoy.

Reheating

Pralines are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you like a bit of gooeyness, you can microwave a praline for just five seconds to gently soften it. Don’t overheat, or the sugar may melt and lose its special grainy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or almonds also work well. However, the Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines experience really shines with toasted pecans for that authentic southern bite.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

You can still make pralines! Use the “soft-ball” test: drop a bit of hot mixture into a glass of cold water. If you can form it into a soft, squishy ball with your fingers, it’s ready to go.

Why did my pralines turn out grainy or too hard?

Overcooking or overheating the mixture can lead to grainy or hard pralines. Stir constantly and remove from heat the moment you hit 240°F for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture classic to Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

Toasting is highly recommended! It deepens the nutty flavor and gives your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines a richer, more aromatic crunch. Just spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 7–8 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but work quickly when portioning the candy onto your baking sheet—praline mixture sets up fast. Consider enlisting a helper so you don’t feel rushed as you spoon out each portion of your Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines.

Final Thoughts

Get your apron ready and dive into making a batch of Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Whether you gift them or save them all for yourself, these candies bring southern charm, nostalgic sweetness, and a whole lot of smiles to any table.

Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 pralines 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the sweet and nutty goodness of Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Sugar Mixture:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
6 tablespoons unsalted butter

Additional Ingredients:

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Cook Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Add Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, toasted pecans, and a pinch of salt.
Cool and Stir: Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes, then vigorously stir until it thickens and becomes slightly cloudy.
Shape Pralines: Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Cool and Store: Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature until firm, about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American