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brown butter pecan pralines - featured image

Brown Butter Pecan Pralines: Easy Homemade Recipe


  • Author: Maya
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 pralines 1x

Description

Rich, creamy, and nutty homemade pralines made with browned butter and pecans. This recipe offers a superior alternative to store-bought candies with a simple, forgiving method.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (220g) pecan halves
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Watch closely until it foams, settles, and smells like toasted hazelnuts (5-7 minutes). Pour immediately into a heat-proof bowl to stop cooking.
  2. Return the browned butter to the saucepan. Add sugar and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
  4. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, let it simmer without excessive stirring. Cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage: 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C).
  6. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for exactly 5 minutes. Do not skip this step.
  7. Stir in the vanilla extract. Vigorously beat the mixture with a wooden spoon for 3-4 minutes until it becomes matte, thicker, and holds a trail.
  8. Fold in the pecan halves until evenly coated.
  9. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
  10. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes until firm. Do not refrigerate.

Notes

Humidity affects candy making; on humid days, aim for 242°F. Do not stir excessively once the mixture boils to prevent crystallization. If the mixture sets too quickly in the pot, gently reheat on low for 10-15 seconds. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 praline
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 20
  • Sodium: 40
  • Fat: 10
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 22
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 2

Keywords: brown butter pralines, homemade candy, pecan pralines, holiday treats, southern dessert, easy candy recipe