Excellent Pralines
Rich, sweet pralines with a buttery, nutty flavor and a glossy finish, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or sharing as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the buttermilk, sugar, and soda until the sugar is dissolved.
- Place on low to medium heat; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook until soft ball stage is reached.
- Add pecans, butter, and vanilla.
- Beat until the mixture is glossy and begins thickening.
- Spoon out onto greased wax paper.
- If it gets too thick to spoon out, put it back on the heat for a minute or so.
- Cook until the mixture gradually turns brown.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure you have all ingredients at room temperature for better mixing. If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. Keep stirring constantly as the mixture heats up to avoid burning. Use a candy thermometer for precision; the soft ball stage is critical for achieving the perfect praline texture.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own or as a sweet addition to dessert platters. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea. Consider using them as a topping for ice cream or as a delightful addition to a dessert buffet alongside Grannies Grand Chocolate Pies or Mortal Sin Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause them to become sticky. If they harden too much, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Excellent Pralines contains roughly 180 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% 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
What should I do if my praline mixture is too runny?
If your mixture is too runny, return it to the heat and cook it a bit longer until it reaches the soft ball stage. Stir constantly and check the consistency periodically to ensure it thickens properly without burning.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference. Just ensure to chop them roughly so they incorporate well into the mixture and provide a nice crunch.
How can I tell when the pralines are done cooking?
The pralines are done when the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, which is around 234°F to 240°F. You can test this by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape but is pliable.
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).