Introduced centuries ago by the French (who made them with almonds), pralines—sweet little nut-based confections—proved to adapt well to Louisiana’s pecan trees and native sugarcane. Today the quintessential praline of New Orleans is made with pecans, sugar, butter, and fresh cream or milk. As you might guess from all the shops announcing them, these cookie-size treats are quite popular in this city.
Where: In the French Quarter, we picked up our handmade pralines at Southern Candymakers (multiple locations including 334 Decatur St., map), where the staff will give you a free taste before buying. The shop prides itself on having the best pralines in New Orleans, touting its traditional method of making them: hand-scooping and cooling the pralines on a marble slab. Distinctly sugary and creamy, these Creole pralines make a perfect portable snack for when the sweet tooth strikes.
When: Daily, 10am-6pm
Order: Pralines ($37.95 for a one-pound box), of course; we tried the “original creamy,” but other varieties include chocolate, rum, peanut butter, coconut, and sweet potato (you can get an assortment as well). Good luck ignoring the other pretty treats here, like the pecan brittle and double-dipped caramel-chocolate tortues (“turtles”).
Alternatively: Pralines are sold all over the place, especially in the French Quarter. Some other trusted spots include Aunt Sally’s Pralines (810 Decatur St., map) and Leah’s Pralines (714 St. Louis St., map). Outside the Quarter, Loretta’s Authentic Pralines (2101 N. Rampart St., map) is said to be the best.
Updated: Feb. 2025
