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Pecan Pralines 🍬🥜🍯

Sweet, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, Pecan Pralines are a timeless Southern treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’ve had them at a holiday gathering, a country fair, or a charming Southern candy shop, you know exactly how unforgettable they are — rich, nutty, and wrapped in a smooth caramel hug.

These homemade confections come together with just a few pantry staples and a little patience. The result? A batch of glossy, nut-studded candies that’ll transport you straight to New Orleans with every bite.

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What Are Pralines, Anyway? 🇺🇸🍮

Pralines (pronounced “prah-leens” in the South) originated in France but took on their unique character in Louisiana, especially among Creole cooks. The Southern version typically includes sugar, butter, cream, and pecans — all cooked into a luscious, sugary mixture that’s spooned into candies as it cools.

They’re softer than brittle, creamier than toffee, and full of roasted pecan goodness.

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Why You’ll Love Pecan Pralines

• 🥜 Crunchy toasted pecans in every bite
• 🍬 Creamy, rich texture that melts on your tongue
• 🧈 Made with simple, classic ingredients
• 🕰️ Great for gifting, holidays, or just treating yourself
• 🎁 Stores well and perfect for sharing

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk 🥛
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves or pieces, toasted 🥜
• A pinch of salt

Optional: a candy thermometer (but not required!)

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How to Make Classic Southern Pecan Pralines

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet or oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes, just until fragrant. Let them cool.
2. In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, combine sugars, cream, butter, and salt. Stir continuously.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often to prevent scorching.
4. Boil for 5–8 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a soft-ball stage (235–240°F on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have one, drop a little into cold water — it should form a soft, flexible ball.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and toasted pecans.
6. Continue stirring the mixture until it thickens slightly and loses some of its glossy shine (about 2–3 minutes).
7. Drop by spoonfuls onto parchment or wax paper. Let cool until firm.

Makes about 18–24 pralines, depending on size.

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Tips for Success 🍬

• Stir constantly — sugar burns fast
• Work quickly when spooning the mixture — it sets up fast
• Use a wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Let them cool completely before removing from the paper

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Serving & Storage Ideas 🎁

• Serve on holiday dessert platters 🍽️
• Package in cellophane bags with ribbon for a homemade gift 🎀
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
• Freeze in layers with parchment paper between pralines for longer storage

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Delicious Variations You Can Try 🌟

• Bourbon Pralines: Add a splash (1–2 tsp) of bourbon with the vanilla for extra Southern flair 🥃
• Chocolate Pralines: Stir in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips after removing from heat
• Spiced Pralines: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a unique twist
• Maple Version: Use maple syrup in place of some brown sugar for a deeper flavor

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Perfect for the Holidays and Beyond

These homemade pecan pralines are pure Southern comfort. They make wonderful additions to cookie tins, dessert buffets, and homemade gift baskets — but honestly, they’re just as good for a random Wednesday when you need a little sweetness in your day.

Once you master this classic candy, you’ll be hooked on how easy and satisfying it is to make — and how fast they disappear every time you share them.

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