When I first made this Pecan Praline Honey Butter in my kitchen I knew I had created something special. The smell of toasted pecans mixed with honey and warm cinnamon filled my whole house. Now it's become my signature homemade gift for friends and family. There's something magical about spreading this creamy nutty butter on a warm piece of toast or fresh baked biscuit it just makes everything taste like a cozy morning at grandma's house.
Simple Ingredients for Something Amazing
- Pecans: ¼ cup chopped nice and fine. I love using Georgia pecans when I can get them.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup softened to room temperature. Use the good butter for this one.
- Honey: ⅓ cup local honey adds such wonderful flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp pure vanilla never imitation.
- Ground Cinnamon: ½ tsp fresh from my spice drawer.
- Salt: Just a pinch ⅛ tsp to make all the flavors sing.
Let's Make Some Magic
- First the Pecans
- Heat your oven to 350°F chop those pecans fine and spread them on a baking sheet. Watch them close while they toast about 5 minutes until you can smell that nutty aroma.
- Mix the Base
- While the pecans cool grab your butter honey vanilla cinnamon and salt. Mix everything together until it's smooth and creamy.
- Add Those Nuts
- Once your pecans are completely cool fold them into your butter mixture. Make sure every spoonful will have that perfect nutty crunch.
- Time to Taste
- Let it come to room temperature before spreading on your favorite bread or warm biscuits pure heaven!
My Kitchen Secrets
- Watch Those Nuts: Trust me stay close to the oven while toasting pecans they can go from perfect to burned in seconds.
- Butter Matters: Splurge on good quality butter here you'll taste the difference.
- Keep It Fresh: Store it on your counter for a couple days or pop it in the fridge for about a week just let it soften before using.
More Than Just Butter
This isn't just butter it's a little jar of joy. I love watching people's faces light up when they first taste it spread on warm banana bread or melting into hot pancakes. Every time I make it the kitchen fills with that wonderful aroma of toasted pecans and warm cinnamon. It's become such a special part of our family breakfasts and holiday gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does this butter keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Let soften at room temperature before using.
- Can I use different nuts?
Yes! Try walnuts or almonds - just make sure to toast them first for best flavor.
- Why toast the pecans?
Toasting brings out the nuts' natural oils and deepens their flavor. It also makes them crunchier.
- Can I freeze this butter?
Yes! Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- What can I serve this with?
Try it on toast, biscuits, pancakes, waffles, sweet potatoes or anywhere you'd use regular butter.