Lil Kennie's Pecan Candy

20 servings Prep: 5 m Cook: 20 m Total: 25 m Intermediate
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If you like pralines, this is a great candy made with pecans, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. It is also a quick one! This recipe calls for vanilla extract and not flavoring.

Ingredients

20 servings
  • 1 3/4 cups sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 5 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of cinnamon
  • 1 cup pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Boil down sugar and water until it reaches a dark color (similar to caramel, about 15-20 minutes). Lower your heat then add the vanilla extract and cinnamon. Boil for a couple more minutes. Then add the pecans and let them boil for a couple more minutes.
  2. Pour and spread on a greased pan or parchment-lined pan. Let cool completely, then cut into pieces. Enjoy!

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why did my candy turn grainy?

A: Stirring too much during the sugar boiling stage can cause crystallization. Once you add the sugar and water, stir only until dissolved, then let it boil without stirring until it reaches the dark caramel color.

Q: How do I know when the sugar is dark enough?

A: Look for a deep amber or caramel color - similar to the color of cola. If it gets too dark it will taste bitter, so watch carefully and remove from heat as soon as you reach a rich amber color.

Q: My candy won't harden properly, what went wrong?

A: The sugar mixture likely didn't cook long enough. It needs to reach at least soft crack stage (270-290°F). Use a candy thermometer to ensure proper temperature, or test by dropping a small amount in cold water - it should form firm but pliable threads.

Tips and Techniques

Prepare your pan with parchment paper or grease it well before you start cooking - this candy sets quickly once poured. Having everything ready to go is key. Use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for the best flavor in this simple candy.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts or chopped almonds
  • vanilla extract: maple extract or bourbon

Equipment Needed

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Candy thermometer (helpful but not required)
  • Wooden spoon
  • Greased pan or parchment paper

Historical Context

Louisiana cooks are known for their pralines, and many families have developed quick candy variations that capture similar flavors with less fuss than traditional praline-making.