Pralines (the hard way)

1-1/2 cups sugar
1-1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup half-and-half
1 stick butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 cups pecan halves

Combine all ingredients in a large heavy saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring gently, until sugar dissolves. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until candy thermometer registers 228°. Add vanilla, butter, and pecans and cook to soft-ball stage (235°), stirring frequently. Remove from heat, and beat with a wooden spoon just until mixture begins to thicken. Working rapidly, drop by tablespoonfuls onto greased wax paper; let stand until firm. Makes about 3 dozen.


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