Irresistible Southern Pecan Pralines Recipe: A Classic Sweet Treat
When it comes to Southern indulgences, few desserts capture the heart quite like pecan pralines. These rich, buttery, and creamy confections are a quintessential taste of the South, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re crafting them as a thoughtful holiday gift or treating yourself to a decadent snack, pralines are a treat that never goes out of style. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this timeless delight in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe for these Southern gems that will leave everyone begging for more.
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Ingredients for Southern Pecan Pralines
Sugars
1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds depth and a subtle molasses flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and ensures a smooth texture.
Dairy
½ cup evaporated milk: Provides creaminess and richness without adding excess water.
Flavor Enhancers
Pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a classic praline aroma.
Fat
½ stick (4 tablespoons) softened butter: Infuses the mixture with a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Nuts
1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped pecans: The star of the show! They add crunch and a nutty, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy candy base.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Keep a spoon or cookie scoop handy to portion out the pralines quickly.
2. Combine the Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir constantly to dissolve the sugars completely.
3. Cook the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage). This ensures the pralines set properly without being too hard or too soft.
4. Add Butter and Pecans
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and pecans. Stir vigorously until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
5. Portion the Pralines
Working quickly, use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow the pralines to cool and set completely, about 30 minutes.
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Why This Recipe Works
The combination of two types of sugar creates the ideal balance of flavor and texture, while the evaporated milk and butter add creaminess that makes each bite irresistible. The pecans bring their signature crunch and buttery taste, tying the whole dessert together.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Pralines
Watch the Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure precision. Cooking beyond 238°F can make the pralines too hard, while cooking below can make them too soft.
Work Quickly: The mixture begins to set as soon as it’s off the heat, so portion the pralines onto the baking sheet without delay.
Toast the Pecans: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the mixture.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair pralines with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Use them as a topping for vanilla ice cream to create an indulgent dessert.
Wrap individual pralines in cellophane and gift them to friends and family during the holidays.
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Conclusion
These Southern Pecan Pralines are a delightful mix of creamy texture, nutty crunch, and buttery sweetness that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the South. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this recipe is a must-try for candy lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these heavenly confections that taste like they came straight from a Southern candy shop. Try the recipe today and savor the rich, nostalgic flavor of pralines!
