Chocolate Pecan Pralines
Crispy chocolate pralines studded with buttery pecans, a sweet‑savory treat perfect for holiday gift baskets or dessert parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, Pet milk, and cocoa in a saucepan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and hardens, then test with cold water.
- Add butter, marshmallow cream, and vanilla extract.
- Continue cooking until it boils for a few minutes.
- Stir in pecan halves and cook until they are warmed through.
- Spoon the mixture onto buttered pans to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. If you don't have Pet milk, you can substitute with evaporated milk for a similar taste and consistency. Stirring constantly is crucial to prevent burning, and test the mixture with cold water to check for the right consistency. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you can lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Pecan Pralines are delightful on their own, but you can serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. For a festive touch, consider placing them on a dessert platter with other treats like Butterscotch Crunch Top Cake for a sweet variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate them to maintain their firmness. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a bit or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to melt them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Pralines contains roughly 2067 calories, with 3g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 181g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just keep in mind that different nuts will alter the flavor profile slightly. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor, making them a delicious addition to your pralines.
What should I do if my pralines didn't set?
If your pralines are still too soft after cooling, it may be due to undercooking the mixture. You can reheat them gently in a saucepan and cook until they reach the soft ball stage (about 240°F). Once reached, you can spoon them onto buttered pans again to set.
How can I make these pralines more chocolatey?
To intensify the chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder or mixing in some chocolate chips towards the end of cooking. Dark chocolate chips can add a rich depth, while semi-sweet chips will keep the sweetness balanced.
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).