Description
Maple Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern candy combining pure maple syrup’s natural sweetness with crunchy toasted pecans. This easy-to-make treat requires simple pantry ingredients and offers a rich, buttery, and fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a delightful snack, these pralines can be customized for texture and flavor, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned candy makers.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients. Coarsely chop the pecans. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Combine Sugars and Liquids: In a medium saucepan, mix the maple syrup, granulated sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar before placing the pan over medium heat.
- Cook the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, allowing it to reach the soft-ball stage (234°F or 112°C) on a candy thermometer to ensure the perfect texture.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Mix quickly and thoroughly to coat the nuts and evenly distribute the flavors.
- Cool and Shape: Let the mixture cool slightly until thick but still pliable. Using a spoon, drop small scoops onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow pralines to set completely at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
- Serve or Store: Once firm, the Maple Pecan Pralines are ready to enjoy. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control and perfect consistency.
- Avoid stirring the mixture while boiling to prevent crystallization and grainy texture.
- Work quickly when adding pecans and scooping as the candy sets fast.
- Test for doneness by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball that’s still malleable.
- Store pralines in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent stickiness and sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop Candy Making
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline (approximate)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg