1/2 c. sugar
2 c. sugar
2/3 c. milk
2 c. pecans
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. butter

In small heavy skillet over medium heat, caramelize 1/2 cup sugar until melted, stirring frequently.

In the meantime, cook sugar and milk in a 2 to 3 quart saucepan, stirring frequently; add caramelized sugar and pecans. Cook on medium heat until mixture will form a soft ball when dropped into cold water (336 degrees); add vanilla and butter, do not stir. When cool, beat until it begins to hold shape. Drop into mounds on wax paper. Makes 40 pralines.