Butterscotch Pralines
Butterscotch Pralines are rich, sweet confections featuring the warm, buttery flavor of butterscotch combined with crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday treats or gifting, these creamy candies have a soft, chewy texture and a delightful nutty crunch that appeals to anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the butterscotch pudding mix, sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a large, heavy saucepan, mixing well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches soft ball stage (234°F).
- Remove from heat and beat with a wooden spoon for 2 to 3 minutes or until the mixture is creamy and begins to thicken.
- Working rapidly, drop spoonfuls onto waxed paper using a rounded tablespoon.
- Allow the pralines to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra caramel flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract after removing the mixture from heat. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. Be sure to monitor the cooking temperature closely; using a candy thermometer can help ensure you reach the soft ball stage correctly.
Serving Suggestions
These butterscotch pralines are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside bites from the Applesauce Pecan Pie or Chocolate Mornin Biscuits. Consider serving them with coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option, but they may lose some of their chewiness. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a softer texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterscotch Pralines contains roughly 156 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 15g 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 pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors such as vanilla or chocolate pudding mix. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile of the pralines, so adjust accordingly to your taste.
What should I do if my pralines don't set?
If your pralines are too soft and don't set, they may not have reached the soft ball stage during cooking. You can try reheating the mixture and cooking it a bit longer, then drop spoonfuls again on waxed paper.
Can I add other ingredients to the pralines?
Absolutely! You can mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it may affect the consistency of the pralines.
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).