Jackie'S Cream Pralines
Creamy, nutty pralines with rich caramelized sugar and toasted pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet tooths and sharing at gatherings or as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, put the sugar on medium heat for about 5 minutes until sugar starts to melt; stir constantly.
- Add evaporated milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, for about 25 to 30 minutes until mixture begins to thicken.
- Add butter, pecans, and vanilla to the mixture.
- Test the mixture in cold water to see if ready to spoon out onto a greased area (counter or tabletop).
- Use a tablespoon to drop the mixture onto a greased surface and let cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
Make sure to stir constantly while cooking to prevent the sugar from burning. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the mixture. For a touch of variation, you could substitute walnuts for pecans or add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. This recipe can be a delightful treat alongside Jean'S Sweet Potato Pie.
Serving Suggestions
These cream pralines make a lovely dessert on their own but can also be served alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience. They also complement well with chocolate desserts, adding a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but let them come to room temperature before serving to regain their original texture. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Cream Pralines contains roughly 662 calories, with 5g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (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 for this recipe?
While granulated sugar is recommended for its melting properties, you can experiment with brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor. Keep in mind that this might alter the color and texture of the pralines slightly, so monitor the cooking time closely.
How do I know when the mixture is ready to spoon out?
A good test is to drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball that holds its shape, it's ready to spoon out. If it dissolves, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
Can I add flavors or ingredients to the pralines?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a splash of bourbon. For a fruity twist, consider incorporating dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture, as it may affect the 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).