Bourbon-Infused Praline Pecans

Crafting the Perfect Southern Sweet: Bourbon Praline Pecans

Welcome to Day 16 of our “25 Days of Sweets and Treats” series! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that promises to be a showstopper: **Bourbon Praline Pecans**. These aren’t just any pralines; they’re a decadent blend of toasted pecans enveloped in a creamy, caramelized coating, with a sophisticated hint of bourbon that elevates them from simply delicious to truly extraordinary. This recipe is a nod to timeless southern hospitality, bringing warmth and joy with every bite.

A Confession and a Culinary Triumph

I have a little confession to make about these magnificent pecan pralines. When I first made a batch, I decided to share them with my mother-in-law. Now, she’s a wonderful woman, but I wasn’t entirely sure how she’d react to a treat explicitly labeled with bourbon. So, I omitted that particular detail when I presented them to her on a beautiful holiday platter. A small white lie for a greater good, perhaps?

To my delight, and honestly, a bit of relief, she absolutely adored them! She savored each one, praising their rich flavor and perfect texture, and quickly declared that I could (and should) make them again anytime. The genuine enthusiasm in her voice was all the validation I needed. The bourbon had worked its subtle magic, enhancing the pecans and caramel without being overpowering, creating an experience she clearly loved.

Now, the dilemma remains: do I eventually reveal the secret ingredient that made them so special, or do I simply “forget” to mention that one line in the recipe? What to do, what to do! Thankfully, my husband was in on the secret and wholeheartedly supported his mother trying them, giving me the green light. It’s safe to say these Bourbon Praline Pecans are a guaranteed hit, whether the bourbon is announced or discovered as a delightful surprise.

Why These Bourbon Praline Pecans Are Your New Holiday Staple

Aside from their incredible flavor, these pralines are remarkably easy to prepare, making them an ideal project for busy holiday seasons. They require simple ingredients, a bit of stirring, and a touch of patience, culminating in a gourmet-quality treat that seems much more difficult than it actually is. The process is straightforward, perfect even for novice candy makers, and the rewards are immense.

Not only are they a fantastic addition to your own holiday dessert table, but they also shine as thoughtful, homemade gifts. Imagine packaging these beautiful, rustic pralines in charming holiday containers, tied with a festive ribbon. It’s a personalized touch that shows you put effort and care into your presents, far exceeding the impact of a store-bought item. They’re perfect for host gifts, teacher appreciation, or just a sweet gesture for neighbors and colleagues.

Beyond the holidays, these pralines are a versatile indulgence. Serve them with coffee, crumble them over ice cream, or simply enjoy them as a delightful pick-me-up. Their sweet, nutty, and boozy profile makes them a sophisticated snack for any occasion. They truly capture the essence of southern comfort and indulgence, inviting everyone to slow down and savor the moment.

The Art of Bourbon Praline Pecans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bourbon Praline Pecans

Learn how to create delicious Bourbon Praline Pecans, a perfect southern sweet treat and a delightful DIY holiday gift for any occasion.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 24
Calories: 122 kcal per serving

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• ¼ cup Butter, cubed (This forms the rich, creamy base of our praline candy.)
• ½ cup White Granulated Sugar (Provides the essential sweetness and structure.)
• ½ cup Brown Sugar, packed (Adds depth of flavor and a beautiful caramel hue.)
• ¾ cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Crucial for a smooth, velvety texture.)
• 1 cup Pecan Halves, toasted (The star of the show, offering a satisfying crunch. Toasting enhances their natural nutty flavor.)
• ½ cup Chopped Pecans, toasted (Adds another layer of texture and ensures every bite is packed with pecan goodness.)
• 1 Tablespoon Bourbon (The secret ingredient that imparts a sophisticated, warming flavor. Use your favorite drinking bourbon for the best results.)

Instructions

1. Prepare Baking Sheets: Thoroughly grease two large baking sheets. You can use butter, cooking spray, or line them with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal. Set them aside as you’ll need to work quickly later.
2. Initiate the Candy Base: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan (to prevent scorching), melt the cubed butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in both the white granulated sugar and the packed brown sugar. Pour in the heavy whipping cream. Continue to cook and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a full, rolling boil.
3. Achieve Soft Ball Stage: Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a consistent boil. Cook, stirring occasionally (but not constantly, to avoid crystallization), until the candy thermometer registers exactly 236°F (113°C). This is known as the “soft ball stage,” where a drop of the mixture in cold water forms a soft, pliable ball. This step is critical for the praline’s final texture and typically takes about 20 minutes. Do not rush this process.
4. Incorporate Pecans and Bourbon: Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the toasted pecan halves, chopped pecans, and the tablespoon of bourbon. Stir vigorously until all the pecans are fully coated and the mixture begins to thicken and lose its glossy sheen, becoming slightly opaque. This takes about 1-2 minutes.
5. Form the Pralines: Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the hot praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheets. You can make them as large or as small as you like, aiming for roughly 2-inch diameter patties. As the mixture cools, it will firm up quickly, so be swift but careful.
6. Cool and Set: Allow the Bourbon Praline Pecans to stand undisturbed on the baking sheets until they are completely set and no longer glossy. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your kitchen’s temperature and humidity. Once cool, they will be firm and ready to enjoy.
7. Store Properly: Once fully cooled and set, store your delicious Bourbon Praline Pecans in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out or becoming sticky.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Essential for even heat distribution and preventing scorching of the sugar mixture.
• Candy Thermometer: Absolutely crucial for achieving the correct soft ball stage (236°F), which determines the texture of your pralines. Without it, success is much harder to guarantee.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: For stirring the hot candy mixture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Two Baking Sheets with Sides: As mentioned, baking sheets with raised edges are ideal to prevent any clumsy spills of hot mixture. Line them with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy release.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Bourbon Praline Pecans

Amount Per Serving

Calories 122
Calories from Fat 81

% Daily Value*

Fat 9g14%

Saturated Fat 3g19%

Cholesterol 15mg5%

Sodium 21mg1%

Potassium 38mg1%

Carbohydrates 10g3%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 9g10%

Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 171IU3%

Vitamin C 1mg1%

Calcium 14mg1%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Tips for Praline Perfection

• Don’t Skimp on Toasting Pecans: Toasting your pecans before adding them to the mixture significantly enhances their flavor and aroma, making a noticeable difference in the final taste of your pralines.
• Use a Reliable Candy Thermometer: Precision is key in candy making. A good candy thermometer will ensure your mixture reaches the exact soft ball stage, preventing either a brittle or overly soft praline.
• Work Quickly: Once the mixture is removed from heat and the pecans and bourbon are added, the praline will begin to set rapidly. Have your baking sheets ready and be prepared to drop the spoonfuls quickly to form individual pralines.
• Avoid Stirring Excessively After Boiling: While you stir initially to dissolve the sugars, once the mixture boils and you’re aiming for the soft ball stage, stir only occasionally. Excessive stirring can cause sugar crystals to form, resulting in grainy pralines.
• Quality Bourbon Matters: You don’t need to use your most expensive bourbon, but a good quality bourbon will shine through in the flavor profile. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the bourbon with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pecan extract for a similar rich flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your Bourbon Praline Pecans have fully cooled and set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh and delicious for up to 1-2 weeks. To maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming sticky, you can place wax paper or parchment paper between layers if stacking them.

More Festive Holiday Cookies and Treats to Explore

Our journey through 25 days of sweets and treats continues, and there’s a world of deliciousness waiting for you. If you loved making these Bourbon Praline Pecans, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other festive recipes that are perfect for sharing or savoring yourself:

• Krumkake: Delicate Norwegian waffle cookies, often filled with cream.
• Crock Pot Cinnamon Pecans: An easy way to make fragrant, spiced pecans with minimal effort.
• Sweet & Spicy Almonds: A delightful combination of heat and sweetness for a unique snack.
• Chocolate Shortbread Cookies: Rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate goodness.
• Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies: A tropical twist on a classic favorite.
• Molasses Cookies: Soft, chewy, and spiced – the epitome of cozy comfort.
• Ranger Cookies: Packed with oats, coconut, and cornflakes for incredible texture.
• Chocolate Chip Coconut Rum Cookies: An adult-friendly cookie with a hint of rum.
• Apricot Coconut Cookies: Fruity and chewy, a delightful combination.
• Butter Pecan Cookies: Another pecan-infused delight, soft and nutty.
• Frosted Pineapple Cookies: Sweet and tangy, topped with a creamy frosting.
• White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies: Festive and minty, perfect for winter holidays.
• Butterscotch No Bake Cookies: Quick and easy, a classic childhood treat.

Make sure to check back each morning for a new holiday cookie and treat recipe! We’re constantly adding delightful new ideas to make your celebrations extra special.

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If you’re passionate about cooking and baking, don’t stop here! Explore our wide array of recipes, including our popular copycat recipes, a vast collection of tempting dessert recipes, and incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes that make mealtime a breeze.

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Recipe originally shared on December 14, 2013. Updated September 2020.