Description
Maple Pecan Pralines are a nostalgic and delightful candy combining rich, pure maple syrup with toasted pecans in a creamy, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Perfectly balancing sweet and crunchy textures, this easy-to-make recipe is ideal for gifting, snacking, or adding a unique touch to desserts. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced candy maker, these pralines offer a rewarding and delicious experience with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Maple Pecan Pralines Ingredients
- 1 cup pure maple syrup (high quality)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole pecans (toasted)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Begin by lightly toasting the whole pecans in a dry pan over medium heat. This enhances their natural oils and deepens the flavor, giving the pralines the essential crunchy texture.
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix granulated sugar, pure maple syrup, heavy cream, and salt. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
- Cook to the Right Temperature: Using a candy thermometer, continue cooking the mixture until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). This temperature ensures a creamy texture without the candy becoming hard or sticky.
- Add Butter, Vanilla, and Nuts: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and toasted pecans. Stir vigorously to slightly cool the mixture and begin forming the signature praline consistency.
- Shape and Cool: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment-lined trays. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature until they firm up and are ready to enjoy or store.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor temperature closely; this prevents overcooking and ensures perfect texture.
- Butter should be at room temperature to prevent clumping and create a smooth praline.
- Stir quickly and vigorously after cooking to avoid graininess and encourage proper setting.
- Choose fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- If making large batches, work in small batches to ensure the candy doesn’t harden before shaping.
- Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks for best freshness.
- Individually wrap pralines for freezing; they can last up to three months without flavor loss.
- Reheating is generally unnecessary; if pralines harden, let them soften at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop Candy Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline (approximate)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Maple Pecan Pralines, Maple Candy, Pecan Candy, Homemade Pralines, Gluten Free Candy, Nutty Sweet Treat
