New River Pralines
Sweet and nutty pralines with rich caramel flavors, perfect for gifting or a indulgent treat, appealing to caramel lovers and those craving crunchy, chewy confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy pot, blend the sugar, water, and butter.
- Cook slowly, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils.
- Add the pecan halves, still stirring.
- Cook until the mixture reaches the firm ball stage (250°F).
- Remove from heat; stir for about 2 minutes.
- Drop spoonfuls onto buttered wax paper or into waxed muffin cups for uniform size.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure perfect pralines, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, aiming for the firm ball stage at 250°F. If you prefer, substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans for a different flavor. For a richer taste, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. Remember to keep stirring while cooking to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with Pumpkin Chiffon Pie With Gingersnap Crust for a festive dessert spread. Consider presenting them in decorative bags as homemade gifts for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them where they can last for about two weeks. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New River Pralines contains roughly 35 calories, with 3g carbohydrates and 3g 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
What should I do if my pralines don't set properly?
If your pralines don't set, it may be because the mixture didn't reach the correct temperature. You can reheat the mixture and try cooking it longer until it reaches the firm ball stage. Alternatively, you can pour the mixture into a pan and let it cool to make a delicious pecan candy.
Can I make these pralines in advance?
Yes, you can make pralines in advance! They store well and can be prepared a few days ahead of time. Just ensure they are completely cooled before storing in an airtight container. This makes them a great option for holiday gatherings or as part of a dessert platter.
What is the best way to use leftover pralines?
Leftover pralines can be enjoyed as a sweet snack on their own, or crumbled over ice cream for added texture and flavor. They also work well as a topping for cakes or brownies, enhancing your dessert with a nutty sweetness. Consider adding them to your next batch of Puppy Chow Crispy Munchies for a unique twist.
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).