Easy Easy Pecan Pralines

Cook: 4 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and crunchy pecan pralines feature caramelized sugars and toasted pecans, offering rich, buttery flavors perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or sharing as a delightful treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup pecan pieces or pecan halves
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions

  1. Lay wax paper on top of folded newspaper.
  2. Use two pieces about 12 to 18 inches long for easy removal after cooling.
  3. Mix sugars, milk, butter, and pecans in a saucepan over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
  4. Boil exactly 1 1/2 minutes while stirring constantly, then remove from heat and stir for another 30 seconds.
  5. Add vanilla and beat until the mixture cools to the thickness of cream.
  6. Immediately spoon the mixture onto the wax paper.
  7. Allow the pralines to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. If you want to add a twist, consider substituting half of the pecans with almonds or walnuts for different flavor profiles. Keep the mixture on medium heat to avoid burning, and always stir consistently during boiling to achieve the perfect texture. For a special touch, try adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a unique variation.

Serving Suggestions

These pralines are perfect as a sweet treat on their own or can be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with the chocolate flavors in Easy Breakfast dishes. Consider using them as a topping for vanilla ice cream or crumbled over Fudge Cake With Icing for an indulgent dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating them as it can cause them to become sticky. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can briefly place them in the fridge before serving. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if they lose their shape, but be careful not to overheat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Easy Pecan Pralines contains roughly 707 calories, with 5g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.

707 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.3g 11% DV
Total Fat 19.9g 26% DV
Carbs 112.8g 41% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 95.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 195.8mg 9% DV
Potassium 264.5mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 11.1mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 113.3mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 9.4mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 263.5mg 20% DV
Iron 4.1mg 23% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different nuts for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that each nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the pralines, so choose according to your preference.

What should I do if my pralines don't set properly?

If your pralines are too soft, it may be due to undercooking the mixture. Make sure to boil for the full 1 1/2 minutes and stir constantly. If they remain soft, you can try refrigerating them to help them firm up.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Keep an eye on the boiling time, as it may vary slightly when making a larger batch.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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