Texas Pralines

Use a large pot, the candy needs lots of room to bubble.

Pour the buttermilk, sugar and baking soda into the pot.

Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved, then place the pot on low to medium heat and let it boil to a soft ball stage, stirring constantly.

(Soft ball means dipping a spoon into the candy and letting a small amount drip into cool water.

If you can form the syrup into a soft ball with your fingers, it is ready.) The mixture will turn a brownish color, but don't worry, it is supposed to.

Once the soft ball stage is reached, remove from heat, then add 2 cups of pecan halves, then the vanilla and butter. Beat the mixture briskly until it becomes glossy and starts to get very thick.

Quickly spoon onto greased wax paper, making little patties.

Pecan halves may be turned right side up.

Let the candy completely cool before removing it from the paper.