Pecan and Chocolate Pralines

Decadent homemade pralines combining toasted pecans with a rich caramel base, topped with melted chocolate and a perfectly placed pecan half. These classic Southern confections make for an elegant dessert or gift.

24 servings
41 min

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces semisweet chocolate
  • 1 piece candy thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. Stirring gently, bring 2 cups pecans, both sugars, cream, and butter to a boil in a medium heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Attach candy thermometer to side of pan. Boil, occasionally swirling pan, until thermometer registers 236°F, 7-8 minutes. Remove from heat; stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until mixture thickens and pecans are suspended in syrup, 2-3 minutes.

    11 min

  2. 2.

    Drop candy by heaping teaspoonfuls onto prepared sheets. Let cool completely. Spoon some melted chocolate over; place a pecan half on top. Chill until set, about 30 minutes. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 week ahead. Store airtight in refrigerator. Return to room temperature before serving.

    30 min

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