Easy Butterscotch Pralines
Creamy butterscotch pralines with crunchy pecans and rich caramel flavor, perfect for sweet tooths and holiday treats or a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix pudding mix, white sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter.
- Cook and stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add pecans; boil for 2 to 5 minutes or until soft ball stage is reached.
- Beat the mixture until shiny.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you don't have butterscotch pudding mix, vanilla can be a substitute, although it will change the flavor slightly. Stir constantly while cooking to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If you want a crunchier texture, toast the pecans before adding them to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These butterscotch pralines are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. For a festive touch, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before they set, which complements the sweetness perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, it's best to refrigerate them to prevent sticking. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if needed, but be cautious not to melt the pralines completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Butterscotch Pralines contains roughly 1158 calories, with 6g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 make these pralines without pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even use seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage occurs at a temperature of 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 115°C). You can test it by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready to be removed from heat.
How can I tell when my pralines are done cooking?
The pralines are done when they have thickened and reached the soft ball stage. Additionally, the mixture should be glossy and hold its shape when dropped onto wax paper. If you’re unsure, use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
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).