This Pecan Praline Sauce is a luscious, buttery topping that brings Southern charm to any dessert. Made with brown sugar, butter, cream, and pecans, it’s rich, gooey, and full of nutty flavor.
Perfect drizzled over cakes, cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream, this versatile sauce can turn a simple dish into a show-stopping treat. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make in just minutes on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Melt the Butter
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Cream
- Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Whisk constantly until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Boil and Thicken
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 2–3 minutes while stirring, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Flavoring
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, salt, and toasted pecans.
Step 5: Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
Variation
- Bourbon Praline Sauce: Stir in 1–2 tbsp bourbon after removing from heat.
- Coconut Pecan Sauce: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut along with pecans.
- Extra Sweet: Use dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip pecans and make a caramel praline sauce.
Cooking Notes
- Always stir constantly to prevent sugar from burning.
- Toast pecans beforehand for maximum flavor.
- Store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pour over Butter Pecan Cake or Pecan Pie Cheesecake.
- Drizzle on pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Serve warm over vanilla ice cream.
- Use as a filling between cake layers.
Tips
- Reheat sauce in the microwave in short intervals or on the stovetop with a splash of cream.
- Double the recipe if serving a crowd.
- Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 12 servings)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 23g
- Fat: 13g
- Sodium: 70mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make pecan praline sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat before serving.
Q2: Can I freeze praline sauce?
- Yes, freeze in a jar or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Q3: Can I make it without heavy cream?
- Yes, half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
Q4: Do I have to toast the pecans?
- It’s optional, but toasting enhances flavor and adds crunch.
Q5: What desserts pair best with pecan praline sauce?
- It’s perfect on pound cakes, cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles, or even bread pudding.
Conclusion
This Pecan Praline Sauce is rich, buttery, and full of nutty Southern flavor. Whether you drizzle it over cake, spoon it onto ice cream, or serve it with pancakes, it’s guaranteed to turn any dessert into something unforgettable. Simple, versatile, and indulgent—this sauce is a must-have recipe for every dessert lover.