Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple, quick, and foolproof. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the process takes just a few minutes on the stove. I also love the balance of textures—the creamy, sugary coating and the crisp, nutty pecans. The aroma of brown sugar and butter fills the kitchen, making the whole experience irresistible. It’s the kind of homemade candy that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups pecans (halved or chopped)
1 1/2 cups sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 cup evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

1. I start by preparing a muffin tin with cupcake liners and setting it aside for later.

2. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, I combine the pecans, sugar, brown sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and vanilla.

3. I stir constantly as the mixture comes to a boil, keeping a close eye on the temperature using a candy thermometer.

4. When the thermometer reads between 235°F and 240°F (soft-ball stage), I remove the pan from the heat. This usually takes about 10 minutes.

5. Using a wooden spoon, I stir the mixture vigorously as it cools. It should start to thicken and take on a cloudier appearance after about 2–5 minutes.

6. While the mixture is still hot, I use a cookie scoop to portion the praline mixture into the cupcake liners, just enough to cover the bottom of each one.

7. I let them cool completely until firm—this takes around 30 minutes.

8. Once set, I remove the pralines from the liners and they’re ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 20 pralines. The prep time is 15 minutes, cook time 10 minutes, and cooling time 30 minutes, for a total of 55 minutes.

Variations

I love adding a little twist to my pralines now and then. For an extra depth of flavor, I stir in a pinch of sea salt or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines. Sometimes I use maple extract instead of vanilla for a richer, autumn-inspired version. When I want to make them festive, I sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture before boiling. I’ve also used toasted pecans for an even nuttier flavor that really stands out.

Storage/Reheating

I store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If I want to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to two weeks. They also freeze beautifully—I just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and thaw them at room temperature before serving. I avoid reheating them, as they’re meant to stay firm and creamy, not melted.

FAQs

Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

No, I stick to evaporated milk since condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter—it will change the texture completely.

Why did my pralines turn out grainy?

They may have cooled too quickly or been stirred too little. I stir until the mixture starts to thicken and loses its glossy look.

Can I make these without a candy thermometer?

Yes, I test by dropping a small bit of the mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.

What kind of pecans work best?

I prefer halved pecans for a traditional look, but chopped pecans mix more evenly throughout.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but I use a large pot since the mixture bubbles up as it cooks.

How do I make my pralines creamier?

I stir a little longer after removing from heat so the sugar doesn’t crystallize too soon.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but I omit any added salt since the butter will already provide enough flavor balance.

What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or almonds work well, but the classic praline flavor really shines with pecans.

How do I know when to stop stirring?

When the mixture becomes thick, cloudy, and starts to hold its shape slightly when dropped from a spoon, it’s ready to scoop.

Can I make these as gifts?

Absolutely! I wrap each praline in wax paper or package them in small tins—they make perfect homemade gifts for the holidays.

Conclusion

This Easy Pecan Praline Recipe is one of my favorite Southern-inspired sweets. I love how simple it is to make yet how rich and indulgent the result feels. Each praline has that perfect balance of buttery sweetness and crunchy pecans that melts beautifully in the mouth. Whether I make them for a celebration or just because I’m craving something sweet, these pralines always deliver a taste of pure comfort and Southern charm.