Chocolate Pecan Pralines(From Hershey'S 1934 Chocolate Cookbook)
Chocolate Pecan Pralines are rich, creamy confections blending smooth chocolate, toasted pecans, and sweet caramelized sugars, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or gifting during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, brown sugar, light cream, and salt in a large saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 228°F on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and add broken chocolate, butter, and pecans.
- Return to heat, stirring constantly, and cook to soft ball stage (234°F).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla; let cool for 5 minutes.
- Beat the mixture for 10 to 15 seconds or until slightly thickened.
- Quickly drop spoonfuls of the candy onto greased plates or waxed paper.
- If the mixture becomes too thick to drop, stir in a tablespoon of hot water.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your chocolate is finely chopped before adding it to the mixture. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before incorporation. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Make sure to use a candy thermometer for accuracy; cooking at the right temperature is crucial for the perfect praline texture.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate pecan pralines are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider serving them alongside coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They can also be crumbled over desserts or incorporated into a charcuterie board for a sweet touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a humid environment, refrigerate them to maintain their texture, but be aware that refrigeration may cause them to lose some of their glossy finish. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Pecan Pralines(From Hershey'S 1934 Chocolate Cookbook) contains roughly 8 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 make these pralines without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is recommended for precision, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it's ready. However, this method is less reliable and might require some practice to perfect the timing.
What should I do if my praline mixture is too hard?
If the mixture hardens too much while you're dropping spoonfuls, stir in a tablespoon of hot water to loosen it up. This will help you work with the mixture more easily without compromising the final texture of the pralines.
Can I add other ingredients to the pralines?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries, or even a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty combination. Just ensure the additions don’t overpower the rich chocolate and pecan flavors.
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).