Jim Wentworth'S Southern Pralines
Sweet, nutty Southern pralines with a rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying dessert lovers or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, soda, salt, and buttermilk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add oleo and pecans; lower heat slightly and continue stirring until candy forms a hard ball in cold water.
- Remove from heat; cool slightly, beating constantly.
- Drop by teaspoonful onto waxed paper to harden.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your pralines come out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; the mixture should reach the soft ball stage (around 234°F to 240°F). If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice (1 cup milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar). Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an indulgent dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Additionally, they can be a great topping for cakes or incorporated into other confections like fudge for a rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Once the pralines have hardened, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to refrigerate them to maintain their texture. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jim Wentworth'S Southern Pralines contains roughly 404 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2109mg per serving (92% 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
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Ensure the nuts are lightly toasted to enhance their flavor before adding them to the mixture.
What should I do if my pralines don't harden?
If your pralines don't harden, it may be because the mixture didn't reach the right temperature. You can try reheating the mixture gently and cooking it a little longer until it reaches the soft ball stage again. Once it reaches that point, drop it onto wax paper immediately.
Is it possible to make these pralines vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the oleo with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar instead of buttermilk. The texture and flavor will vary slightly, but they can still be a delicious treat!
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).