🥜✨ New Orleans Pecan Pralines: The Ultimate Southern Candy!


 

🍯 For the Pralines:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup evaporated milk (or heavy cream)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups pecan halves (toasted for extra flavor!)

🧂 Optional:

• Pinch of salt (balances sweetness)


👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step (Foolproof!)

1. Toast the Pecans

→ Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 mins. Set aside.

2. Cook the Sugar Mixture

① In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine sugars, evaporated milk, and butter.
② Stir over medium heat until dissolved, then stop stirring and let boil 3-4 mins (until 234°F/112°C if using a thermometer).

3. Cool & Beat

① Remove from heat. Add vanilla and pecans.
② Let cool 1-2 mins, then stir vigorously until thick and matte.

4. Shape & Set

① Drop spoonfuls onto parchment.
⏳ Let harden 20-30 mins.


💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Pralines

🔥 Too soft? Cook 1-2 mins longer next time.
🍯 Too hard? Reduce cook time slightly.
🎁 Gifting? Wrap in wax paper + twine for charm.