Southern Pecan Pralines
Indulge in the timeless delight of Southern Pecan Pralines, a classic candy that brings together the rich flavors of brown sugar, creamy butter, and toasted pecans. This recipe yields approximately two dozen delectable pralines that are perfect for sharing during festive occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends. The combination of ingredients creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience with a satisfying crunch from the pecans. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own batch of homemade pralines that are sure to impress!
24
Servings
80
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
light brown sugar
3 cups (firmly packed)
whipping cream
1 cup
light corn syrup
2 tablespoons
salt
1/4 teaspoon
butter
1/4 cup (or margarine)
chopped pecans
2 cups
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a 3-quart saucepan, combine the light brown sugar, whipping cream, light corn syrup, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously until it comes to a full boil.
2
Once boiling, reduce the stirring to occasional stirring and let it cook for 6-8 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature; it should reach 236 degrees Fahrenheit (the soft ball stage).
3
Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the butter (do not stir the mixture right away). Allow the mixture to sit until the temperature drops to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
4
Gently fold in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract using a wooden spoon. Continue to stir constantly until the candy mixture begins to thicken noticeably.
5
Working quickly, drop heaping teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto sheets of wax paper, creating individual pralines.
6
Let the pralines sit at room temperature until they are firm and completely set before transferring them to an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
3.8g
Fat
11.4g
Carbs
0.6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Southern Pecan Pralines?
Southern Pecan Pralines are a classic candy made from brown sugar, whipping cream, butter, and pecans, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and satisfying crunch.
How many pralines does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 24 pralines, or about two dozen.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients include light brown sugar, whipping cream, light corn syrup, salt, butter, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
How much light brown sugar is needed?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of firmly packed light brown sugar.
What type of cream should I use?
You should use 1 cup of whipping cream for this recipe.
Is light corn syrup necessary?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup to help achieve the correct candy consistency.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use 1/4 cup of either butter or margarine.
How many pecans do I need?
The recipe requires 2 cups of chopped pecans.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
Combine light brown sugar, whipping cream, corn syrup, and salt in a 3-quart saucepan and stir until it reaches a full boil.
What temperature should the candy reach?
The mixture should reach 236 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the soft ball stage.
How long does the mixture need to boil?
Once boiling, it should cook for approximately 6 to 8 minutes with occasional stirring.
When do I add the butter?
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the butter immediately, but do not stir it right away.
At what temperature should I add the pecans?
Wait for the mixture's temperature to drop to 150 degrees Fahrenheit before folding in the pecans and vanilla.
What is the best way to stir the pecans into the mixture?
Use a wooden spoon to gently fold in the pecans and vanilla and continue to stir until the mixture thickens.
How do I form the pralines?
Drop heaping teaspoonfuls of the thickened mixture onto sheets of wax paper.
How long do they take to set?
Let the pralines sit at room temperature until they are firm and completely set.
How should I store homemade pralines?
Once set, transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh.
How many calories are in one praline?
Each serving contains approximately 80 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
One praline contains about 3.8 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 11.4 grams of carbohydrates per praline.
Does this recipe contain protein?
Yes, each praline provides approximately 0.6 grams of protein.
What kind of saucepan is recommended?
A 3-quart saucepan is the recommended size for this recipe.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, using a candy thermometer is important to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball stage at 236 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as Candy.
Are these pralines suitable for gifts?
Yes, they are perfect for sharing during festive occasions or holiday celebrations.
How much vanilla extract should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Is there any salt in this candy?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of salt is included to balance the sweetness.
Can I use whole pecans?
The recipe specifies chopped pecans for the best texture and distribution within the candy.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include southern desserts, candy, sweet treats, and holiday recipes.
Is this recipe easy to follow for beginners?
Yes, the step-by-step guide provides clear instructions to create a successful batch of homemade pralines.