The Best Pecan Praline Recipe

These homemade pecan pralines are simple to make and taste better than any store bought version. A perfect holiday candy for gifting and sharing.

I used to sell out of these pecan pralines so fast at the markets. Now you can make them yourself.

I have been on a baking train lately. I would love to keep going, but today I am propping up my swollen pregnancy ankles and getting a few recipes up before Christmas. I will be back to baking more holiday treats tomorrow.

One of my favorite Christmas recipes to make is pecan pralines, right next to peanut brittle of course. A lot of people skip making them because they seem too hard, but I am here to tell you they are so easy and a thousand times better homemade than anything from the store or a mass produced chain bakery. This pecan praline recipe will have everyone begging for more, and it makes such a great affordable Christmas gift to bag up for friends, neighbors, and family. That is exactly what we did a few days ago, and they are also gluten free. I made a video as well so you can watch and get the hang of it quickly. I truly wish I had known how easy they were to make years ago.

Pecan Praline Ingredients:

The recipe uses simple ingredients: pecans, sugar, brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, baking soda, vanilla, and sea salt. That is it. Now, two important things about the pecans. Buy them unsalted and in bulk to help keep costs down, and make sure to pre toast them for the best flavor. I buy the giant Kirkland bag of pecans from Costco. You will also need a candy thermometer! You can find one on Amazon or at most stores like Target, your local grocery store in the baking section, or Walmart.

How to Make THE BEST Pecan Pralines:

You can watch my video to help, but I’m telling you, the directions are so easy!

Toast the pecans in the oven, then set them aside. (about 10-15 minutes at 325 degrees, but don’t forget to stir them around while cooking)

In a medium pot fitted with a candy thermometer, add all ingredients except the toasted pecans, vanilla, and salt.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235 degrees.

Remove the pot from the heat, then stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla, and salt.

Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes, until the mixture thickens (but not too thick!) and turns pasty.

Scoop the pralines into small clusters on a parchment lined baking sheet.

Let them cool for 10 to 15 minutes, then enjoy. Let them cool completely before packaging them.

Storing Pralines in the Freezer:

You can also store these pecan pralines in the freezer. They freeze beautifully and taste amazing straight from the freezer. I actually love them cold because the texture gets extra firm and chewy, making them even more delicious.

How to Serve or Gift Pecan Pralines:

Pecan pralines are delicious served at room temperature or straight from the freezer if you love them extra cold and chewy. Add them to a dessert platter, serve them with coffee after dinner, or keep a few on hand for a sweet afternoon treat.

They also make the perfect homemade gift. Place a few pralines in a clear cellophane bag or small treat box, tie with ribbon or twine, and add a simple gift tag. I use my heat sealer with my bags before gifting. These are great for neighbors, teachers, friends, holiday parties, or cookie exchanges. They travel well and always disappear fast, making them one of my favorite edible gifts to give during the holidays. They also last up to three weeks, so you can make them in advance!

I am so excited for you to finally try the pecan pralines I have been making for the past few years, and I think they are going to become a favorite in your house too. And do not be fooled by all the holiday talk. Pecan pralines are amazing to make and enjoy all year round. How cute would these be for Valentines day, too?