Inez Lewis' Pralines
Creamy, nutty pralines with a rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and making delightful homemade treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, baking soda, evaporated milk, white Karo syrup, vanilla, and margarine in a heavy boiler.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches the soft boil stage, using a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the pecans.
- Let the mixture cool slightly but keep it warm.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper, allowing them to spread.
- Let the pralines cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute with toasted coconut flakes. Make sure to stir continuously as the mixture cooks to prevent burning, and use a reliable candy thermometer for accuracy. If you want to add a bit of spice, a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of these pralines.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. They also make a thoughtful gift when packaged in decorative boxes, perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a humid climate, it's best to refrigerate them to maintain texture. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent sticking. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature before serving, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Inez Lewis' Pralines contains roughly 756 calories, with 12g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 pralines are too soft after cooling?
If your pralines are too soft, it may be due to not cooking the mixture long enough or not reaching the soft boil stage. You can try reheating the mixture gently and cooking it for a few more minutes before dropping spoonfuls again. Ensure to monitor the temperature closely and remove it from heat once it reaches the right consistency.
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped into smaller pieces for even distribution in the pralines. Experimenting with various nuts can also create unique flavor combinations for your pralines.
Is it possible to make these pralines vegan?
Yes, you can easily make vegan pralines by substituting margarine with a plant-based butter and using a dairy-free evaporated milk alternative, such as coconut milk. Make sure to check that the sugar you use is vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char. This way, you can enjoy delicious pralines while keeping them vegan-friendly.
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).