Praline Pecans Caramel Delight

Praline pecans are an irresistible treat perfect for holiday gifting or an indulgent snack during any season. This recipe makes glossy, crisp candied pecans with a caramel crunch that always disappear quickly at parties and family gatherings. The simple stovetop approach means no need for a candy thermometer, making it quick and stress-free.

The first time I made these, the whole house filled with the warm scent of toasty butter and sugar. Now friends drop hints around the holidays hoping I will bring a batch.

Ingredients

• Light brown sugar: adds classic praline flavor and helps create a smooth caramel layer Choose a fresh unopened bag for best texture
• White sugar: boosts sweetness and ensures a crisp finish
• Butter: brings rich flavor and a silky texture to the praline Use real unsalted butter for control over saltiness
• Heavy cream: adds luxurious body and helps the praline set smoothly Always use full fat for best results
• Pecan halves: provide the signature nutty crunch Look for plump pecans that smell sweet and are free from blemishes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Setup:

Lay out a generous piece of parchment paper near the stove and have two sturdy forks ready This will help you work quickly once the pecans are coated

Melt the Sugar Mixture:

Combine light brown sugar white sugar and butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat Let the butter fully melt then stir constantly as the sugars dissolve Keep stirring carefully as bubbles form and the mixture comes to a rolling boil The color will deepen slightly and the sugary grains should disappear

Add the Cream:

Pour in the heavy cream slowly while whisking steadily The mixture will bubble up Keep stirring until everything is completely blended and glossy smooth

Coat the Pecans:

Add the pecan halves straight into the skillet Gently turn the pecans in the hot praline until all are fully coated with the sugary mixture Be sure to move quickly so the praline does not start setting up in the pan

Cool and Separate:

Promptly pour the pecans onto the prepared parchment As soon as possible use the forks to carefully separate the individual pecans This stops them from clumping and helps them cool evenly

Store:

Once the praline pecans are completely cooled transfer them to an airtight container for storage This preserves their crunch and keeps them fresh

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Pecans are my favorite part of this recipe because their buttery snap matches perfectly with the rich praline coating. My family loves sneaking a few right off the parchment while still a little warm from the caramel.

Storage Tips

These praline pecans keep best in an airtight container at room temperature They stay crisp for about two weeks Avoid the refrigerator which can make them sticky and lose their crunch If you want to keep them longer freeze in a heavy zip top bag for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have heavy cream you can use half and half but the coating may set a bit softer Walnuts work well in place of pecans though the flavor is a little less bold For a personal touch sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt while the pralines are still warm

Serving Suggestions

Praline pecans are superb as a snack all on their own but I also love adding them to holiday cheese boards mixing into salads or using as a topping for baked brie They make great gifts packed in small cellophane bags with a ribbon My favorite way is to sprinkle them over vanilla ice cream

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A Sweet Southern Tradition

Praline candies came to Louisiana by way of French settlers and became popular across the American South These pecans are a quicker less fussy take on the classic treat The beloved flavor comes from deeply toasted nuts coated in lavish caramel

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep praline pecans from sticking together?

Spread the coated pecans on parchment paper using forks, separating them while they're still warm and before they set.

→ What sugar combination is best for praline pecans?

A mix of light brown sugar and white sugar gives the best balance of sweetness and caramel flavor.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted, though texture and flavor will vary accordingly.

→ How should praline pecans be stored?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crunch and freshness.

→ What’s the ideal way to serve praline pecans?

They’re delicious as a snack, a topping for desserts, or even sprinkled over salads for added sweetness and crunch.