Delicious Texas Pecan Praline Recipe – A Sweet Southern Treat

When you think of classic Southern sweets, Texas Pecan Pralines are one treat that’s impossible to resist. With their rich, caramel-like flavor and the satisfying crunch of Texas pecans, these pralines are the ultimate indulgence. They strike the perfect balance between creamy and crispy, with each bite delivering a sugary, nutty burst of flavor. It’s a dessert that’s made for sharing, but after one bite, you might want to keep them all for yourself!

Photo byNick Davies

I first stumbled across this recipe during a family trip through Central Texas. We stopped by a small roadside shop selling fresh pralines, and from that moment, I was hooked. The aroma of warm sugar and roasted pecans filled the air, and I knew I had to recreate that taste at home. Since then, this easy praline recipe has been a staple in my kitchen. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!

Texas is known for its pecan trees, which happen to be the official state tree. Pecans have deep roots in Texas, making them the perfect nut for pralines. These candies originated in France and were brought over to the Southern U.S., where they evolved into the delightful treat we know today. The combination of buttery caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to forget.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups Texas pecans, roughly chopped (or whole if you prefer)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the butter has melted.
2. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer (this is the soft-ball stage). Stir gently to avoid any sticking or burning.
3. Once the mixture reaches 240°F, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and pecans. Stir vigorously until the mixture thickens slightly but is still pourable.
4. Quickly spoon out the praline mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating small clusters. Work fast, as the pralines will harden as they cool.
5. Allow them to cool completely (about 20-30 minutes) before enjoying their sweet, crunchy goodness!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pralines:

• Use fresh pecans: Since pecans are the star of this recipe, fresh pecans will make a huge difference. Toast them slightly for extra flavor before adding them to the mixture.
• Consistency is key: Make sure to use a candy thermometer to hit that exact 240°F mark. If you undercook the mixture, the pralines won’t set properly. Overcooking will lead to a brittle texture.
• Add a kick: Want to spice it up? Try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the mix for a uniquely Texan twist!

Fun Variations:

• Vegan Pralines: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and swap the cream for coconut cream. This variation adds a slight tropical twist but still keeps that authentic Texas flavor.
• Low-Sugar Option: Experiment with a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-carb version of this sweet treat.

Serving Suggestions:

Texas Pecan Pralines are perfect to serve on their own as a sweet snack or dessert, but they also make an excellent topping for vanilla ice cream. If you're hosting a party, consider pairing them with a cup of strong coffee for an indulgent after-dinner treat.

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this Texas Pecan Praline recipe? Let me know how it turned out for you in the comments below! Be sure to share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to follow me for more delicious recipes like this one.