Southern Praline Candy: A Classic Pecan Sweet Treat

Classic Southern Praline Delight

Praline lovers rejoice: this creamy Southern candy is made with toasted pecans, butter, sugar, and milk for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.

Recipe Description

These authentic Southern pralines are a candy classic. With toasted pecans, rich butter, and just the right balance of sugar and milk, every bite is decadently sweet and satisfyingly nutty.

Key Benefits & Highlights

• Quick Prep: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Store in an airtight container.
• Gift-worthy: Perfect for holiday goodie jars.

Ingredients for Perfect Praline

• 1 ½ cups toasted pecans
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, milk, butter, and salt over medium heat.
3. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a full rolling boil (about 15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and toasted pecans.
5. Continue stirring until the candy thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
6. Working quickly, drop tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Let cool completely, about 20 minutes, until set.

Pro Tips for Southern Pralinés

• Use a candy thermometer to hit exactly 234°F (soft-ball stage).
• Brush down sugar crystals on the pot sides with a wet pastry brush.
• If pralines spread too thin, reduce cooking time slightly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbs: 25 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Sugar: 24 g
• Protein: 1 g

Total Time: 35 minutes | Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes

Yield: 20 servings

Category: Dessert | Cuisine: Southern | Rating: 4.5/5 (217 reviews)

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes.

Enjoy this praline treat.