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
- 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.
- Return the browned butter to the saucepan. Add sugar and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
- Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
- Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Bring to a boil.
- 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).
- Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for exactly 5 minutes. Do not skip this step.
- 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.
- Fold in the pecan halves until evenly coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- 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