Creamy Rice Pudding with Praline Sauce

1 . Stage

Stir first 3 ingredients and 2 cups half-and-half in a large saucepan. Cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring often, 35 to 40 minutes or until rice is tender.

2 . Stage

Whisk together egg yolks, 1/2 cup half-and half, and sugar. Gradually stir about 1/4 hot rice mixture into yolk mixture; stir yolk mixture into remaining hot mixture. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches 160 degrees F and is thickened and bubbly (about 7 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.

3 . Stage

Stir together caramels and remaining 1/4 cup half-and-half in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until smooth. Stir in pecans. Serve praline sauce over rice pudding.