Pecan Pralines
An Irresistible Southern Treat: Pecan Pralines
If you’ve never had the pleasure of biting into a Southern Pecan Praline, you’re in for a treat! Imagine the delightful combination of creamy brown sugar and butter, enveloping crunchy pecans in a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience. These pralines are a perfect blend of candy and cookie, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re so addictive!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pecan Pralines are simply the best! They’re not too hard like some pralines can be, offering a perfect soft texture that melts in your mouth. The rich flavors of brown sugar and butter create an indulgent treat you won’t be able to resist. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home, allowing you to enjoy this Southern classic anytime.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Parchment paper
- Medium pot
- Thermometer (to measure 236 degrees)
- Rubber spatula
- Tablespoon-sized scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 1 cup (225g) packed light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
- 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups (212g) pecan halves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Set out parchment paper for the pralines and have a tablespoon-sized scoop ready.
- Add everything except the pecans, salt, and vanilla extract to a medium pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring regularly until the mixture begins to foam and boil.
- Continue stirring until the mixture reaches 236 degrees.
- Remove from heat and add the pecans, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Stir vigorously with a rubber spatula for 3 1/2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Avoid letting it get too thick to ensure easy scooping.
- Quickly drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the parchment paper and let them cool and firm. If the mixture spreads too much, stir it a bit more. If it cools too much while scooping, return it to the warm burner to keep it warm. Stir the mixture after every few scoops.
- Once the pralines are cool and firm, store them in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
For the perfect praline texture, ensure you stir the mixture vigorously and monitor the temperature closely. Keeping the mixture warm will help maintain a scoopable consistency, preventing the pralines from becoming too firm.
Additional Tips or Variations
You can experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon for a unique flavor twist. If you prefer a slightly different nut, try substituting walnuts for pecans.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these delightful pralines is rich and indulgent, making it a perfect treat for special occasions. While exact nutritional values can vary, these pralines are a sumptuous way to enjoy pecans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light? Yes, but it will result in a deeper molasses flavor.
- How long do pralines last? Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.
- Can I freeze pralines? Yes, freezing can extend their shelf life, but thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
These Southern Pecan Pralines are a must-try for anyone who loves a good sweet treat! I encourage you to make a batch and share your experience. Whether you enjoy them yourself or gift them to friends and family, these pralines are sure to impress. Happy cooking!