Miss Annie'S Pecan Pralines
Miss Annie's Pecan Pralines are rich, sweet confections with buttery caramel and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sugar in a heavy skillet or saucepan over low flame.
- Add heavy cream, water, and vanilla flavoring.
- Cook and stir constantly until the mixture is bubbly and the sugar dissolves.
- Insert a candy thermometer into the pan and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Add butter and chopped pecans to the mixture.
- Cook until the thermometer reads 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Pour the mixture onto greased waxed paper and let it set until cold.
- Once set, break into pieces and serve.
- Alternatively, drop by tablespoon onto waxed paper to form individual candies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before reaching the hard ball stage. If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the pralines may have a slightly different consistency. Stirring constantly is crucial to prevent burning. Consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor, and you can also experiment with other nuts if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan pralines make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Raspberry Chiffon Pie for a sweet finish to any meal. You can also crush them and sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt for an extra crunch. For a festive touch, package them as gifts during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, it's best to refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as they will soften slightly and regain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Annie'S Pecan Pralines contains roughly 209 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.
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 different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them evenly so they mix well with the caramel. Each nut will give a unique flavor, making it a fun variation to try.
What should I do if my pralines are too soft?
If your pralines are too soft, it could be due to not reaching the proper temperature. You can reheat the mixture and cook it a bit longer, ensuring it reaches the hard ball stage at 250°F. Once re-cooked, re-pour and let it set again.
How can I ensure my pralines don't stick to the paper?
Make sure to grease your waxed paper well with butter or cooking spray before pouring the mixture onto it. This will help prevent sticking. Alternatively, you could use parchment paper as it provides a non-stick surface too.
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).