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Pecan Pralines with Maple Syrup Recipe

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4 from 45 reviews

Deliciously rich and creamy Pecan Pralines made with pure maple syrup, heavy cream, and buttery pecans. These sweet Southern treats offer a perfect balance of caramelized maple flavor and crunchy nuts, set to a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a decadent snack.

Ingredients

Praline Base

  • 2 cups maple syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Nuts

  • 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions

  1. Combine maple syrup and cream: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Place a candy thermometer in a medium pot. Add maple syrup and heavy cream, stir together, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Cook to the softball stage: Continue simmering, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F (softball stage), about 12 to 18 minutes. Watch closely as it bubbles and reduce heat if necessary to avoid boiling over.
  3. Add flavorings: Remove from heat, then stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until butter melts completely.
  4. Stir to thicken: Continue stirring the mixture for 6 to 7 minutes until it thickens noticeably. This step is crucial for the pralines to set properly rather than spreading out.
  5. Add pecans: Stir in pecan halves for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture loses some of its gloss.
  6. Scoop pralines: Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheets. Let them cool fully for 20 to 30 minutes to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use a reliable candy thermometer to reach the correct temperature for perfect pralines.
  • Work quickly when spooning the mixture since it sets fast as it cools.
  • Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • For a variation, try using different nuts such as walnuts or almonds.