How to Make the Best Pecan Pralines (2024)

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Pecan Pralines are a traditional Southern with crunchy pecans and a soft, buttery-sweet base. And they’re only 5 ingredients!

Pecan Pralines have a similar texture to fudge but are studded with crunchy pecans. The result is a cluster of pecan praline candy that is sweet treat and delicious, a classic New Orlean’s confection that is most popular at the holidays.

If you love the flavor of brown sugar and butter together, these are for you! These sweets are pretty enough for a homemade food gift, too, stored in a pretty box or Christmas tin tied with a bow.

Recipe ingredients

Ingredient notes

• Half and half: Or substitute heavy whipping cream.
• Pecans: Or substitute walnuts for Walnut Pralines, almonds for Almond Pralines, or peanuts for Peanut Pralines.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat, combine sugar, brown sugar, butter, half-and-half, and nuts. Cook until sugar dissolves, about 2-3 minutes, stirring gently. Increase to medium heat and cover.

2. Cook until sugar dissolves from the side of the pan, about 2-3 minutes longer. Uncover and cook until praline reaches soft ball stage, 235 degrees on a candy thermometer, while stirring constantly (do not boil).

3. Remove from heat. Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture until it begins to thicken. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, and allow to stand at room temperature until firm.

Recipe tips and variations

• Yield: This recipe makes about 24 Pecan Pralines.
• Storage: Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Arrange cooled pralines on a plate or tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe plastic bag or container and freeze up to 2 months.