Basic Pralines By Harry
Creamy, nutty pralines with rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet tooths or sharing at celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly coat wax paper with vegetable cooking spray.
- Combine brown sugar, sugar, butter or margarine, milk, and chopped pecans in a heavy 3-quart saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil uncovered 1 to 2 minutes or until candy thermometer reaches 220°F.
- Remove saucepan from heat and beat for 4 to 6 minutes with a wooden spoon or until mixture begins to thicken.
- Working rapidly, drop by tablespoon onto prepared wax paper.
- Let stand until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter or margarine is at room temperature to allow for easier mixing. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. Keep a close eye on the boiling stage to avoid burning, and use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If the mixture seems too thick, adding a splash more milk can help adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with Julia'S Blueberry Cream Pie for a dessert spread. Consider packaging them in decorative boxes as gifts during the holidays for a homemade touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they become too hard, you can place a slice of bread in the container to help soften them. Avoid refrigeration as this can cause the pralines to become sticky and lose their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Pralines By Harry contains roughly 198 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 16g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just chop them finely to ensure even distribution in the pralines. Each nut will impart a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What should I do if my pralines are too soft?
If your pralines turn out too soft, it may be due to not cooking the mixture long enough. Place them back on low heat and stir for a minute or two until they thicken. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for a short time to help them set.
Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?
Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended for this recipe to ensure you reach the correct temperature of 220°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving the right texture for your pralines, making them chewy yet firm. If you don't have one, you can test by dropping a small amount into cold water to see if it forms a soft ball.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).