Classic Louisiana Pralines

Ingredients

  • 3 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 stick real salted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • 3 cups pecan halves, rough chopped
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Combine brown sugar, cream, corn syrup and salt in a large sauce pan. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring regularly. Add butter and let mixture low boil while stirring for 5-6 minutes or until it reaches 236- 240 degrees Fahrenheit using a candy thermometer or when mixture forms a ball when dropped in a measuring cup of cold water.
  • Remove from heat and fold in pecans and vanilla with a wooden spoon. Stir constantly until candy begins to thicken (about 3-4 minutes). When it becomes the consistency of melted peanut butter, quickly drop heaping spoonfuls onto parchment paper to set.
  • Let stand 30 minutes or until firm. Should be the consistency of fudge when ready.