Pecan Pralines
Each bite of these pecan pralines is an explosion of flavor, where the nutty goodness of pecans meets the sugary dance of caramel. This authentic Southern is so easy to make you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner!
Holiday menu missing magic? Find festive inspiration now with these recipes: Sugar Cookie Truffles and Red Velvet Holiday Loaf with Cream Cheese Drizzle.
When it comes to indulging in a delightful treat, pecan pralines stand in a league of their own. Originating from the heart of the South, these delectable confections combine the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the sweet allure of caramel. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through crafting your own batch of pecan pralines, ensuring a symphony of flavor in every bite.
Pecan Pralines
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pralines Recipe
Pecan pralines are a delightful fusion of nutty pecans and sweet, creamy caramel. Here are two compelling reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. A Southern Tradition with a Modern Twist
This pecan praline recipe seamlessly blends tradition with simplicity. The process is easy to follow, making it accessible for novice and experienced home cooks. Whether you’re a fan of Southern classics or just looking to impress your guests with a homemade treat, these pralines hit the sweet spot.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, this recipe fits into your busy schedule, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy a taste of the South.
- Authentic Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter captures the authentic taste of Southern pecan pralines, transporting you to the charming streets of New Orleans with every bite.
2. Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. From festive occasions to everyday cravings, pecan pralines can be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels to cater to your sweet tooth, offering a personalized experience for every palate.
How to Make This Pecan Pralines
Creating these mouthwatering pecan pralines is a breeze. Grab the ingredients and follow these steps for a satisfying culinary experience:
Ingredients:
- Pecans
- Sugar n& Brown sugar
- Evaporated milk
- Unsalted butter
- Vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the Sugars: Combine sugar and brown sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Melt over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the Milk and Butter: Gradually whisk in evaporated milk and cubed butter. Continue whisking until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Cook to Temperature: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom or sides. Boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F, typically taking about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from Heat and Stir in Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract.
- Add Pecans and Pour onto Baking Sheet: Quickly fold in chopped pecans and pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it into a thin layer using a spatula.
- Cool and Break: Let the pralines cool completely at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. Once cool, break them into pieces and savor the deliciousness!
Variations for Pecan Pralines
While the classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, don’t be afraid to experiment with these enticing variations:
- Nutty Alternatives: Swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds to give your pralines a distinct flavor profile.
- Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a festive touch, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Storing and Making Ahead
Pecan pralines can be conveniently stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This makes them an excellent make-ahead treat for parties or gifting during the holiday season.
Pecan Pralines
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 4 tbsps unsalted butter cubed
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecans chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar and brown sugar. Melt over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
- Gradually whisk in evaporated milk and butter. Continue whisking until butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom or sides. Boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract.
- Quickly fold in chopped pecans and pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread into a thin layer using a spatula.
- Let the pralines cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cool, break into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
- For a chewier praline, let them cool for a shorter time.
Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. - You can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
Additional Information: - Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
- This recipe can be doubled.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a more festive touch.
Common Questions About Pecan Pralines
- Can I use corn syrup in pecan pralines?
- While some recipes call for corn syrup, our authentic Southern recipe skips it, ensuring a purer flavor with sugar, brown sugar, and evaporated milk.
- How long do pecan pralines last?
- Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, pecan pralines can remain fresh for up to two weeks.
- Can I freeze pecan pralines?
- Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the pralines. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them at room temperature.
Crafting your own pecan pralines is a rewarding experience that brings the essence of the South into your kitchen. Whether you savor them on your own or share them with loved ones, these pralines promise a delightful journey of taste and tradition. Enjoy the symphony of flavor in every homemade bite!
We’re drooling over the thought of you baking this Pecan Pralines. If you try it, be sure to share your pics with us using #pecanpralines and #foodieaholic. We can’t wait to see your culinary masterpieces!
More Holiday Recipes To Try:
- Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies
- Red Velvet Thumbprint Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling
- Snowball Cookies
Food memories are a big part of our family. We love having a big family party and making great food, or heading to Disneyland and trying all the things. Why not allow food to be a happy part of your life. That is what this blog is about. I hope you enjoy our recipes.
