These simple, sweet, buttery confections are a staple across the South. Pecan pralines are made with sugar, cream and toasted nuts for a one of a kind pecan candy that melts in your mouth.
Preheat the oven to 325°. Lay the pecans in a single layer on a sheet pan and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the pecans are toasted and fragrant. Set aside.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a heavy bottom saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, molasses and whipping cream.
Bring to a boil over medium high heat, and continue to cook, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes or until it reads 240°F on a candy thermometer. Note: This is the soft ball stage (when mixture will form a soft, flexible ball when a small amount is dropped from a spoon into a bowl of cold water). The sugar mixture is like molten lava at this point -- be very careful not to burn yourself.
Remove the sugar mixture from the heat and stir in the butter, pecans, salt and vanilla. Continue to stir vigorously until thick, about 2-3 minutes.
Working very quickly, use a teaspoon to scoop a spoonful of praline and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. The candy will firm up very quickly, so do not get distracted while you're doing this and work fast.
Let the candies cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container to store.