Introduction
Get ready to indulge in the South’s sweet treasure, Pralines! These sugar-coated bites are creamy, nutty, and totally irresistible. Perfect for sharing or gifting, if you can bear to part with any!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 pralines
Directions
1. Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt in a large saucepan. Add butter and evaporated milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. Once the mixture comes to a boil, keep boiling for about 15 minutes, stirring often, until the blend thickens.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the pecans and vanilla extract.
4. Drop heaping spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Let them sit until set.
5. Enjoy your praline treasures or pack them as gifts to spread the sweet love!
Nutritional Information
Perfect small bites of joy about 130 calories each.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of evaporated milk to the mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Once the mixture reaches a boil, continue boiling for about 15 minutes. Stir often to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The blend should thicken as it cooks.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in 2 cups of pecan halves and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Drop onto Baking Sheet
Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
Step 6: Let Set
Allow the pralines to sit until they are fully set and have firmed up.
Step 7: Enjoy or Gift
Once set, enjoy your delicious praline treasures or package them as gifts to share the sweetness with others!
Notes
Storage
Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a unique twist.
Tips for Perfect Pralines
Make sure to stir continuously during cooking to prevent burning and ensure an even texture.
Cook Techniques
Technique 1: Combining Ingredients
Start by thoroughly combining the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt in a large saucepan. This ensures a uniform blend, which is crucial for even cooking.
Technique 2: Controlled Heating
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. This prevents the sugars from burning and allows the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
Technique 3: Boiling and Thickening
Once boiling, maintain the heat for about 15 minutes, stirring often. This step is key to achieving the right consistency for your pralines.
Technique 4: Adding Pecans
After removing the saucepan from heat, quickly stir in the pecans and vanilla extract. This timing ensures the pecans maintain their crunch and flavor.
Technique 5: Forming Pralines
Drop heaping spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow room for setting without sticking.
FAQ
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, but this will alter the traditional flavor of the pralines.
How do I know when the praline mixture is ready?
The mixture should thicken enough to hold its shape when dropped onto wax paper. It should have a glossy and smooth appearance.
Can I store pralines? If so, how?
Yes, pralines can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Ensure they are completely set before storing.
What can I do if my pralines are too soft?
If your pralines remain too soft, you can return the mixture to medium heat and cook it a bit longer until it thickens further before dropping more spoonfuls.
Can I make pralines in advance for gifting?
Absolutely! Pralines make great gifts and can be made several days in advance. Just pack them well to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Pralines are a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With these techniques and answers to common questions, you’ll be well-equipped to create your own batches of irresistible Southern delights!
