Getting Started with Pecan Pralines: A Beginner’s Guide to Delicious Treats
Pecan pralines are a classic Southern treat that can be enjoyed year-round. These sweet and nutty confections are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delectable pecan praline recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to get started with baking. From classic pralines to creative twists on traditional treats, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In the following pages, you’ll find a variety of pecan praline recipes that use simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are designed to help you get started with making delicious pecan pralines.
From classic Southern pralines to creative twists on traditional treats, we’ve got you covered. So why wait? Dive in and start exploring the world of pecan pralines today!
Classic Southern Pecan Pralines
These creamy, nutty treats are a staple of Southern cuisine. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these sweet and indulgent pralines in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted.
4. Add pecan halves to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
5. Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
6. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Easy 3-Ingredient Pecan Praline Fudge
This rich and creamy fudge is a classic Southern dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just three ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a batch of pecan praline goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans until well combined.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Microwave Pecan Pralines in Minutes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these quick and easy pecan pralines, perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying the rich, buttery flavor of caramelized pecans in no time!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecan halves
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine corn syrup, sugar, and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
2. Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Stir in chopped pecan halves and salt.
5. Microwave the mixture on high for an additional 30-60 seconds, or until the pecans are caramelized and the mixture is bubbly.
6. Remove from microwave and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 minutes total
No-Bake Pecan Praline Cheesecake
A creamy cheesecake infused with the rich flavors of pecans and pralines, without the hassle of baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup praline syrup (or caramel sauce)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined.
2. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and praline syrup (or caramel sauce).
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
7. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! No baking required.
Pecan Praline Butter Cookies
These rich and buttery cookies are packed with the sweet flavor of pecans and the crunch of praline topping, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Praline topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture until just combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Praline Topping:
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tsp water
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Drizzle over warm cookies immediately after baking.
Slow Cooker Pecan Praline Clusters
Elevate your snack game with these gooey, sweet, and crunchy clusters that combine the flavors of pecans, caramel, and vanilla. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and corn syrup.
2. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and baking soda to the slow cooker. Stir until combined.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pecan halves to the slow cooker. Stir occasionally.
5. Once the mixture has thickened slightly, remove the slow cooker from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Use a spoon to form clusters by scooping the praline mixture onto parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Pecan Praline Pie Bars
Pecan Praline Pie Bars Recipe
Introducing a rich and gooey dessert that combines the best of pecans and caramel
These bars are an irresistible twist on traditional pecan pie. A shortbread crust, topped with a layer of creamy praline filling, is then covered in a rich chocolate glaze and finished with toasted pecans.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Bake the shortbread crust at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- In a separate pan, cook the praline filling over medium heat until caramelized.
- Spread the warm praline filling over the cooled shortbread crust.
- Melt the chocolate chips and spread over the praline layer.
- Top with toasted pecans and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Praline Pecan Ice Cream Topping
Elevate your ice cream game with this sweet and crunchy praline pecan topping, perfect for adding a nutty twist to your favorite frozen treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Add chopped pecans and stir until well combined.
3. Dot the top of the pecan mixture with butter and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
4. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Once cooled, break into chunks and use as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Stovetop Pecan Pralines
This recipe yields a batch of creamy, crunchy, and utterly addictive pralines that require minimal effort and cleanup. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the caramel turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Stir in pecan halves until well coated with the praline mixture.
5. Cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until pecans are toasted to your liking.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pecan Praline Bread Pudding
Pecan Praline Bread Pudding Recipe: A Rich and Decadent Treat
This indulgent bread pudding combines the warm, comforting flavors of caramelized pecans and praline sauce with tender bread and a hint of spice. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Praline sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until well coated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour over bread mixture and stir until bread is evenly moistened.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm, topped with praline sauce.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Pecan Praline Bites
Vegan Pecan Praline Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats are a delightful fusion of crunchy pecans, chewy dates, and sweet maple syrup. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, these praline bites will satisfy your sweet tooth while adhering to a plant-based diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the dates in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and blend until smooth.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Add the blended dates to the pecan mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Enjoy your Vegan Pecan Praline Bites!
Cooking Time: None required – these bite-sized treats are best served chilled.
Easy Pecan Praline Popcorn
Easy Pecan Praline Popcorn Recipe
Get ready to snack on a sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for movie nights or as a fun addition to your next party. This Easy Pecan Praline Popcorn recipe is easy to make and will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Line a large bowl with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and melted butter.
5. Pour the praline mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Casserole
A sweet and savory twist on the classic sweet potato casserole, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of pecans and praline.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons praline syrup (or honey)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and praline syrup (or honey).
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pecan Praline Banana Bread
Moist banana bread infused with the warm flavors of pecans and caramelized pralines – this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup praline syrup (or caramel sauce)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, mashed bananas, chopped pecans, praline syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
5-Minute Pecan Praline Sauce
Transform your favorite desserts into a sweet and indulgent treat with this easy-to-make Pecan Praline Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and salt. Place over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– For a thicker sauce, cook for an additional minute or two.
– Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Crockpot Pecan Praline Candy
This sweet treat combines the nutty goodness of pecans with a rich caramel sauce, all made easy with your trusty crockpot. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, this praline candy is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Line the crockpot with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Combine corn syrup, sugar, and water in a bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to dissolve sugar.
3. Add butter, vanilla extract, and pecans to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the crockpot, then transfer to an air-tight container.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pecan Praline Pancake Syrup
Elevate your pancake game with this rich and buttery syrup infused with the warm flavors of pecans and pralines. This sweet treat is perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in butter, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans.
5. Let the syrup cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Pecan Praline Truffles
Easy Pecan Praline Truffles
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of crunchy and chewy, with a rich praline flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecans
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together pecans, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sea salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the bowl and mix until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Allow truffles to cool completely before dipping each one in melted chocolate (optional).
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pecan Praline Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the rich flavors of pecans and caramelized pralines, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup praline syrup (or caramel sauce)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in pecans and praline syrup.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Praline-Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat by stuffing thick slices of French toast with a rich pecan praline filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Dip each bread slice into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place the coated bread slices on a flat surface.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans and granulated sugar.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pecan praline mixture onto one half of each bread slice.
6. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of pecans with these 20 delectable and easy-to-make praline recipes perfect for beginners! From classic Southern-style pralines to decadent cheesecakes and butter cookies, this collection has something for everyone. Discover quick and easy treats like microwave pralines and slow cooker clusters, or try your hand at no-bake cheesecakes and one-pot stovetop pralines. Whether you’re a beginner baker or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become new family favorites.
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