Mardi Gras Pecan Pralines (Printable)
Buttery pecan pralines inspired by New Orleans traditions. Rich, creamy, and perfectly simple to make at home in under an hour.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Sugars
01 - 1.5 cups granulated sugar
02 - 1.5 cups light brown sugar, packed
03 - 0.75 cup heavy cream
→ Fats & Flavorings
04 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 - 0.125 teaspoon salt
→ Nuts
07 - 2 cups pecan halves
# How-To Steps:
01 - Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
02 - In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until butter melts and mixture comes to a boil.
03 - Attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Continue stirring and cook until mixture reaches 238°F (soft ball stage), approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
04 - Remove pan from heat. Add vanilla extract and salt. Stir in pecan halves.
05 - Beat mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy but still pourable.
06 - Quickly drop heaping tablespoons of praline mixture onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
07 - Allow pralines to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
08 - Once hardened, transfer to an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to one week.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You get a genuine taste of New Orleans history without leaving your kitchen.
- The combination of creamy sugar and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible.
02 -
- Do not walk away from the stove once the mixture begins to boil or it may scorch.
- Humidity can drastically alter how quickly the candy sets, so dry days are best.
03 -
- Lightly toasting the pecans beforehand adds a deeper, roasted nuttiness.
- If the mixture hardens too fast, a splash of cream can save it from being ruined.