Flavored Pralines
Sweet, buttery pralines infused with vanilla-butternut flavoring and packed with crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying candy cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the light brown sugar, white sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and vanilla-butternut flavoring together over medium heat until the mixture reaches soft ball stage (135°), stirring constantly.
- Add 3 cups of pecan halves to the mixture and stir well.
- Quickly spoon the mixture onto wax paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your pralines turn out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the soft ball stage at 235°F. If you prefer, substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different flavor profile. You can also adjust the flavoring by using pure vanilla extract instead of vanilla-butternut for a more traditional taste. Remember to stir constantly to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These flavored pralines make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with Baked Cherry Pudding for a sweet dessert spread. Consider serving them as gifts during the holidays or at special occasions to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes, but be careful not to melt them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flavored Pralines contains roughly 947 calories, with 4g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.
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 sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars, such as coconut sugar for a healthier option, though it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Just ensure that the total sugar amount remains the same.
What should I do if my pralines didn't set properly?
If your pralines are too soft, it may be due to not reaching the correct temperature. You can reheat the mixture and cook it a bit longer until it reaches the soft ball stage again, then spoon onto wax paper to cool.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to my pralines?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or mix in dried fruits or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may affect the setting time.
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).