A classic Southern treat, these New Orleans pecan pralines are rich, creamy, and bursting with nutty flavor. This recipe simplifies the traditional process, making it easy to create these delectable candies in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
Preparation:
Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, shaking the pan occasionally. Once toasted, set aside.
Step 3: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt. The heavy-bottomed pan is crucial for even heat distribution.
Step 4: Stir the mixture over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugars are fully dissolved. Continue stirring until the mixture begins to bubble gently.
Step 5: Boil gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a thick, golden consistency. Use a candy thermometer for best results; the soft-ball stage is around 235°F (113°C). The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and the toasted pecans.
Step 7: Beat the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it starts to thicken and lose its glossy sheen. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring; this step is vital for the right praline texture.
Step 8: Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. The size of the spoonfuls will determine the size of your pralines.
Step 9: Let the pralines cool and set fully at room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Do not refrigerate, as this can affect the texture.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This recipe offers a simplified approach to making authentic New Orleans pralines, providing clear and concise instructions that ensure success even for novice candy makers. The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and rich nutty flavor, while the creamy base melts in your mouth. Pralines make for an exceptional homemade gift or a special treat to share during the holidays.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them as a standalone sweet treat.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea.
- Crumble them over ice cream or yogurt.
- Include them in a dessert platter with other candies and nuts.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking and to prevent scorching.
- Stir constantly while boiling to ensure the sugar doesn’t burn.
- A candy thermometer is highly recommended for achieving the correct soft-ball stage.
- Don’t overcook the mixture, or the pralines will be too hard.
- Let the pralines cool completely before wrapping or stacking to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information (per praline): (Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 30mg
Conclusion:
This New Orleans Pecan Praline recipe is a delicious and accessible way to experience a taste of the South. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can create these creamy, nutty confections at home, perfect for sharing or indulging in yourself.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of nut? While pecans are traditional for pralines, you could experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. Toast the nuts beforehand regardless.
- How do I know when the mixture has reached the soft-ball stage without a thermometer? If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball that you can flatten with your fingers, it has reached the soft-ball stage.
- Why is it important to beat the mixture after removing it from the heat? Beating the mixture incorporates air and encourages the sugar to crystallize, which is what gives pralines their characteristic creamy, slightly grainy texture.
- How long will the pralines last? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, pralines will typically last for up to 2 weeks.
- Can I add other flavorings to the pralines? Yes, you can customize the pralines by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of bourbon to the mixture along with the vanilla extract.
