There’s something wonderful about a sweet treat that only needs a few ingredients but delivers big on flavor. These 3-Ingredient Pecan Pralines are the perfect Southern-style candy to whip up when you’re short on time but still want something special. With buttery pecans and rich brown sugar melted into caramel perfection, you won’t believe how easy this old-fashioned recipe is to master.

I first made these on a whim when I was craving something cozy but didn’t want to run to the store. I had pecans in the pantry, a lonely stick of butter, and just enough brown sugar—boom! Instant praline bliss. Now, they’ve become a go-to for holiday gifting, last-minute dessert cravings, and sweet little pick-me-ups with coffee. You’ve been warned though… they disappear fast.

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Key Ingredients in 3-Ingredient Pecan Pralines

Pecans – The star of the show. Use halves or pieces. For a deeper flavor, lightly toast them before mixing in.
Brown Sugar – Creates that rich, caramel base and brings the perfect sweetness. Light brown sugar gives a mellow, buttery flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps the sugar form that classic praline texture when cooled.

3-ingredient pecan pralines on a parchment-lined baking sheet, golden and glossy.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Pecan Pralines

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and setting it aside. This is your drop zone, and you’ll want it ready!

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly—it’s a quick process, so stay nearby! Once it hits a gentle boil, keep stirring and let it bubble for 1 to 2 minutes—no longer! Then, remove from heat and immediately stir in your pecans.

Working fast, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared sheet. They’ll start to set pretty quickly. Let them cool completely for about 30 minutes, and voilà—you’ve got yourself a batch of sweet, crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth pralines!

Variations

Maple twist: Replace 1 tablespoon of brown sugar with maple syrup for a fall-inspired spin.
Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over each praline.
Spiced pralines: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a unique kick.

Pairings

These pecan pralines pair beautifully with:

A hot mug of buttered rum or coffee
Crushed and sprinkled over vanilla ice cream
Served alongside a charcuterie board for a sweet-savory contrast

Serving Suggestions

Pack them in cellophane bags tied with twine for an adorable edible gift.
Add them to holiday treat boxes with cookies and fudge.
Break into pieces and stir into oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast with flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcooking the sugar mixture – If you boil for too long, the texture will be crumbly or hard.

❌ Using salted butter – It can alter the sweetness and throw off the balance.

❌ Not working quickly enough – The praline mixture sets fast, so drop them onto the sheet as soon as pecans are mixed in.

❌ Skipping the parchment/wax paper – This will save you from sticky cleanup.

Tips and Tricks

✅ Toast your pecans beforehand for extra nutty flavor.

✅ Use a cookie scoop for even, neat praline mounds.

✅ Don’t walk away while boiling—this is a hands-on candy!

✅ Store with wax paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

✅ They last up to 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

These 3-ingredient pecan pralines are proof that simple really is sweet. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a bake sale, or a little self-love moment, they’re sure to impress. And let’s be honest—anything that tastes like grandma’s kitchen in under an hour is a keeper in my book.

So grab a saucepan and a spoon, and get ready to make magic. You’ll be glad you did!

3 Ingredient Pecan Pralines

Bellina Groschen

Incredibly easy and quick 3-ingredient pecan pralines using just pecans, brown sugar, and butter. A classic Southern treat perfect for gifts or a sweet snack. Includes approximately 30 minutes cooling time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 12

Setting Time 30

Total Time 47

Course Candy

Cuisine American

Servings 12 pralines

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup pecan halves or pieces
1 cup packed light brown sugar
4 tablespoons 1/2 stick or 57g unsalted butter

Instructions

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and butter. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Continue boiling, stirring constantly, for exactly 1 to 2 minutes. Do not overcook.
Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in the pecan halves.
Working quickly before the mixture sets, drop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Let the pralines cool completely on the baking sheet until firm. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before starting. Store cooled pralines in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by layers of wax paper to prevent sticking. They are best enjoyed within a few days.

Notes

This recipe yields about 12 pralines, depending on size.

You can double or triple the recipe easily for gifting.

Use real butter—margarine won’t set the same way.

Store at room temp, not the fridge.

Toasting pecans in a dry pan for 5 minutes enhances flavor.

Avoid dark brown sugar unless you want a stronger molasses flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: Approx. 150

Fat: 10g

Carbs: 14g

Sugar: 13g

Protein: 1g

The nutritional information provided for this recipe is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Keyword Pecan Pralines, 3 Ingredient, Easy Candy, Southern Dessert, Pecans, Quick Recipe