Classic Southern Pralines
These creamy, melt-in-your-mouth pralines are a Southern classic, packed with buttery flavor and delicious pecans in every bite.
Classic Southern Pralines
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Dessert
Author:
Jessica Cain Montano
Servings
About 18-24 pralines
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Cool Time
20-30 minutes
These traditional stovetop pralines deliver sweet nostalgia with every drop. A simple and irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
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1 cup brown sugar
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1 cup white sugar
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2 Tbsp light corn syrup
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1 Tbsp butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ tsp maple or vanilla flavoring
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2 cups chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts preferred)
Directions
In a heavy saucepan, combine brown sugar, white sugar, corn syrup, butter, and cream.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (about 235°F or when a small amount dropped in cold water forms a soft ball).
Remove from heat and stir in flavoring and nuts.
Beat the mixture by hand until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen.
Quickly drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment-lined baking sheets.
Let cool completely before serving or storing.
Recipe Note
- Use a candy thermometer for best results—pralines can go from perfect to grainy quickly.
- Maple extract adds a rich depth of flavor, but classic vanilla works beautifully too.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
- If the mixture hardens before dropping, reheat slightly until it softens again.