Best Praline Cookies Recipe

Ingredients for Best Praline Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• Toasted Hazelnuts
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• All Purpose Flour
• Semisweet Chocolate

How to Make Best Praline Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a large baking sheet.
2. **Make the Praline:** In a heavy medium saucepan, combine 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water.
3. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
4. Continue boiling without stirring for 2-3 minutes, or until the syrup turns a deep amber color (around 320°F on a candy thermometer).
5. Carefully remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup pecan halves or walnuts immediately.
6. Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it thinly.
7. Let cool completely until firm (at least 30 minutes).
8. Once cooled and firm, break the praline into small pieces using a rolling pin or food processor.
9. **Make the Cookies:** In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
10. Beat in 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon baking soda until well combined.
11. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
12. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
13. Stir in the crushed praline.
14. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
15. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
16. Let cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
17. Once completely cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate (optional).