Pecan Pralines

Why Make This Recipe

Pecan pralines are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of butter and sugar with the crunch of pecans. These sweet candy pieces are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a special snack. They are easy to make and require only a few ingredients, making them an ideal choice for candy lovers.

How to Make Pecan Pralines

Ingredients:

• 4 oz. butter
• 4 cups white sugar
• 12 oz. can evaporated milk
• 2 cups pecans

Directions:

1. In a heavy 5-quart pot, combine the butter, evaporated milk, and white sugar.
2. Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to boil.
3. Once boiling, stir continuously until the mixture reaches the ‘soft ball stage’ (this means it should form a soft ball when dropped in cold water).
4. Avoid cooking on high heat to prevent burning.
5. After reaching the soft ball stage, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly while stirring until it loses its glossy appearance.
6. Add the pecans to the mixture and stir until it starts to thicken.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto foil or waxed paper to cool and harden.

How to Serve Pecan Pralines

Pecan pralines can be served as a sweet treat any time of the day. They make a great addition to dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or simply as a snack. You can also package them in a decorative box to give as gifts to friends or family.

How to Store Pecan Pralines

To store pecan pralines, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help preserve their texture and flavor. They can last for about a week or two, but they are usually enjoyed long before that!

Tips to Make Pecan Pralines

• Use a candy thermometer if you have one to help ensure you reach the right temperature.
• Make sure to stir constantly once the mixture starts boiling to prevent burning.
• Experiment with different nuts or add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Variation

For a twist on the classic pecan pralines, try adding chocolate chips or using different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor.

FAQs

1. What is the ‘soft ball stage’?
The soft ball stage is reached when the candy mixture can form a soft ball when dropped into cold water. It should be pliable but not too sticky.

2. Can I use light or dark brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but it may change the texture slightly.

3. What should I do if my pralines are too hard?
If your pralines are too hard, it may be because they were cooked too long. To soften them, you can try microwaving them for a few seconds to warm them up.

Pecan Pralines

Delightful soft candies made from butter, sugar, and pecans, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 oz butter Unsalted butter is recommended.
• 4 cups white sugar
• 12 oz evaporated milk A can of evaporated milk.
• 2 cups pecans Chopped or whole pecans can be used.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a heavy 5-quart pot, combine the butter, evaporated milk, and white sugar.
2. Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to boil.
3. Once boiling, stir continuously until the mixture reaches the 'soft ball stage'.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly while stirring until it loses its glossy appearance.
5. Add the pecans to the mixture and stir until it starts to thicken.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto foil or waxed paper to cool and harden.

Notes

To store pecan pralines, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week or two, but are usually enjoyed long before that. Use a candy thermometer for precision and consider adding a pinch of salt for extra flavor.