Name: Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines: 5 Irresistible Tips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar; 1 cup evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk); ¼ cup butter (salted or unsalted, both work); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups pecan halves (chopped pecans also fine)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines are a nostalgic treat that has been a favorite in the South for generations. These creamy, buttery candies are filled with crunchy pecans, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a straightforward method that combines evaporated milk, sugar, and butter, you can create a delightful batch that captures the essence of Southern cooking. Let’s dive into the sweet world of homemade pralines!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

There are many reasons to love this pecan pralines recipe. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Second, the rich flavor of traditional pecan pralines is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Third, these pralines make fantastic gifts or party favors, adding a homemade touch to any gathering. They are also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from holiday celebrations to casual family dinners. With the right technique, you can achieve that perfect soft chewy texture that everyone loves. Plus, they’re a classic Southern treat that represents the region’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
¼ cup butter (salted or unsalted, both work)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves (chopped pecans also fine)

How to Make Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines Step-by-Step

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set out a spoon or small scoop for forming the candies later to ensure easy shaping and transfer.
Step 2: In a heavy saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the mixture reaches 228°F (thread stage) on a candy thermometer.
Step 3: Stir in the butter and pecan halves, then continue cooking and stirring the mixture until it reaches 236°F (soft-ball stage), which ensures the right consistency for the pralines.
Step 4: Take the pan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Continue stirring the mixture vigorously until it thickens slightly and loses its glossy sheen, indicating it is ready to be shaped.
Step 5: Quickly drop spoonfuls of the thickened mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow the pralines to cool completely and firm up before serving or storing.

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

Keep these in mind:

Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to achieve that perfect soft chewy pralines texture.
Be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the sugars, ensuring a smooth old-fashioned praline candy.
Experiment with other nuts for a unique twist, like almonds or walnuts, to make gourmet pecan pralines.
Work quickly when dropping the mixture onto the baking sheet, as it will harden fast.

Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines: 5 Irresistible Tips - Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

There are many delicious ways to enjoy your homemade pecan pralines. Serve them as a delightful dessert after a meal, or package them in decorative boxes for a thoughtful gift. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack, or crumble them over ice cream for a luxurious treat. They also make an excellent addition to cookie platters during the holiday season, making them one of the best pecan praline desserts.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

To store your pralines, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks, making them perfect for meal prep or for enjoying over time. If you need to reheat them, simply place them in a low oven for a few minutes to soften.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines

What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines?

The key to perfect traditional pecan pralines lies in the cooking temperature. Use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the soft-ball stage for the right consistency.

Can I make Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines ahead of time?

Absolutely! These sweet pecan treats can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you stir constantly while cooking to prevent burning, and use a thermometer to achieve the correct temperatures, which are crucial for the texture of your pecan candy with brown sugar.

Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines: 5 Irresistible Tips - Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines - additional detail

Variations of Old Fashioned Pecan Pralines You Can Try

Feel free to explore different flavors and styles of pralines. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel version or infusing your mixture with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist. You can also try using different nuts to create your own old style pecan candy variations.

For more tips on candy making, check out this guide on candy making. If you’re interested in other dessert ideas, you might enjoy baking chocolate oatmeal bars or mini cranberry cheesecakes.