Name: Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted; Pinch of salt

Golden, glossy, and irresistibly creamy, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines are southern charm in bite-sized form. The magic of this candy lies in its rich buttery base and the deep vanilla flavor that wraps each toasted pecan in a melt-in-your-mouth embrace. They’re perfect for gifting, celebrating, or savoring quietly with a cup of coffee.

What makes pralines truly special is how quickly they come together, yet deliver such an indulgent flavor experience. Whether you’re new to candy-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe gives you foolproof results and the kind of texture that makes you go back for just one more (and another).

What Kind of Sugar Should I Use for Pralines?

For best results, use a mix of white granulated sugar and light brown sugar. The white sugar gives structure and the brown sugar adds depth and a caramel-like richness. Avoid dark brown sugar as it can overpower the delicate vanilla notes.

Ingredients for the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
Pinch of salt

How To Make the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Place pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for about 7 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until butter melts and the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Remove and Stir

Remove from heat. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until mixture thickens slightly and becomes cloudy.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans

Quickly fold in toasted pecans, stirring to coat them well in the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Drop and Cool

Using a spoon, drop small mounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Allow to cool and set for at least 30 minutes.

Serving and Storing Your Pralines

These pralines are best served at room temperature when their texture is perfectly creamy and tender. For gifting, wrap them in parchment and pack into decorative tins or treat bags.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate and bring to room temp before serving. Avoid humidity to keep them from getting sticky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the praline mixture is ready?

Use a candy thermometer and watch for it to reach 236°F, or soft-ball stage. Visually, the mixture should bubble thickly and pull slightly from the sides.

Why are my pralines grainy?

Over-stirring or crystallization can cause a grainy texture. Make sure to stir just enough after removing from heat to thicken the mix, not more.

Can I use dark brown sugar instead?

You can, but it will give a stronger molasses flavor that might overpower the vanilla.

What kind of vanilla works best?

Pure vanilla extract gives the richest flavor. You can also use vanilla bean paste for a slightly more intense and speckled finish.

Can I freeze pralines?

Yes! Wrap them individually and freeze in an airtight container. Thaw at room temp, and they’ll taste just as good.

Are pralines gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any flavorings or butter you use are labeled as such.

Want More Candy Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, check out these other decadent creations:

Try these Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for a mini version of a Southern classic.
These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies deliver crunch and nostalgia.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with Funnel Cake Bites when you’re craving fair food at home.
Bake up Cinnamon Donut Bread for a cozy, sugary twist on morning treats.
For something colorful, check out the Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies that bring holiday cheer all year round.

📌 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 add a pinch of cinnamon or try using maple extract instead? I love hearing your creative spins.

Want more quick candy ideas? Follow me on Pinterest at Nina Dishes for daily sweet inspiration.

Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 pralines

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, rich, and loaded with toasted pecans, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a southern candy favorite. Easy to make with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and warm vanilla flavor, they’re perfect for gifts, holidays, or sweet cravings.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted

Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Place pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for about 7 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until butter melts and the mixture reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

3. Remove from heat. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until mixture thickens slightly and becomes cloudy.

4. Quickly fold in toasted pecans, stirring to coat them well in the creamy mixture.

5. Using a spoon, drop small mounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Allow to cool and set for at least 30 minutes.