Easy Do Pralines
Creamy, nutty pralines with butterscotch and pecans offer a sweet, rich treat perfect for gifting or satisfying a dessert craving. Easy to make and delightfully crunchy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the pudding mix, sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a saucepan.
- Cook slowly until the sugars are dissolved.
- Add the pecans to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the candy thermometer registers 235° to 240° or until a soft ball forms.
- Remove from heat and beat the mixture until it thickens.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper to form patties.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your pralines turn out perfectly, make sure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent burning. If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute with whole milk or cream, but keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly. Use fresh pecans for the best flavor, and consider toasting them beforehand for a deeper taste.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful dessert on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a rich chocolate sauce. They also complement coffee well, making them a perfect treat for an afternoon break or a sweet addition to a dessert platter alongside American recipes like The Best Strawberry Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. To enjoy them later, simply bring them back to room temperature before serving, as they will maintain their flavor and texture well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Do Pralines contains roughly 311 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 30g 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Keep in mind that each type of nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the pralines, so choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
What should I do if my pralines are too soft?
If your pralines are too soft, it may be due to not cooking them long enough. Return the mixture to the heat and cook until it reaches the soft ball stage again. You can also place them in the refrigerator to firm up if they are only slightly soft.
How can I tell when the pralines are done cooking?
The pralines are done when a candy thermometer reads between 235° to 240° Fahrenheit or when a small amount dropped in cold water forms a soft ball. Both methods will help ensure your pralines have the right consistency and texture.
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).