Southern Sweetness: Homemade Pecan Pralines

Indulge in the rich, sugary goodness of the South with this recipe for Homemade Pecan Pralines. These delectable treats, originating from the heart of the Southern culinary tradition, are a perfect blend of creamy sweetness and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re a seasoned praline enthusiast or a newcomer to this Southern classic, this recipe will guide you through creating your own batch of South’s finest pralines.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Measure out all the ingredients and have them ready, as the cooking process moves quickly.

Step 2: Cook the Praline Mixture

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter.
2. Stir continuously until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
3. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, and let the mixture cook without stirring until it reaches the soft-ball stage, around 236°F (113°C). This may take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Pecans and Vanilla

1. Once the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, remove it from heat.
2. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and pecan halves. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to lose its gloss.

Step 4: Drop Pralines onto Parchment

1. Working swiftly, use a spoon to drop rounds of the praline mixture onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Space them apart to allow for spreading.

Step 5: Allow to Cool and Set

1. Let the pralines cool and set at room temperature. This may take around 30 minutes to an hour.
2. Once completely cooled and set, peel the pralines off the parchment paper.

Step 6: Enjoy!

1. Indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness of your Homemade Pecan Pralines. Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself for a taste of Southern comfort.

Notes:

• Ensure you have all the ingredients measured and ready before starting the cooking process, as pralines require quick and continuous stirring.
• Use a good-quality candy thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature of the praline mixture.
• If the praline mixture starts to crystallize before reaching the soft-ball stage, you can add a tablespoon of corn syrup to help prevent this.

These Homemade Pecan Pralines capture the essence of Southern hospitality in every bite. Creamy, nutty, and utterly satisfying, these treats are perfect for gift-giving, celebrations, or simply treating yourself to a taste of the South’s finest pralines.