Ole San Antonio Pralines
Creamy, nutty pralines with sweet caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for gifting or indulging in a classic Southern treat enjoyed by candy lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, evaporated milk, baking soda, and salt in a saucepan.
- Cook very slowly to soft ball stage, 234°F, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add oleo, vanilla, and pecans.
- Beat until creamy and drop onto waxed paper to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure that you cook the mixture slowly to reach the soft ball stage; this is crucial for achieving the desired consistency. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar. For a nuttier profile, consider toasting the pecans beforehand. Keep the beaters handy as you'll want to beat the mixture quickly before it hardens.
Serving Suggestions
These delectable pralines make a perfect sweet treat on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve them as a delightful dessert after a meal, or include them in a gift box alongside other sweets like Marge'S Fruit Dip. They also make a charming addition to any holiday dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. Reheat pralines gently in a microwave for a few seconds if they harden too much, but be cautious not to overheat them, as this can change their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ole San Antonio Pralines contains roughly 163 calories, with 0g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1925mg per serving (84% 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 can I use if I don't have oleo?
If you don't have oleo, you can use unsalted butter as a substitute in this recipe. It will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just remember to melt the butter before adding it to the mixture to ensure it incorporates well.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just be aware that this may alter the flavor slightly, but both options will still provide a delightful crunch. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor even further.
How can I tell when the mixture reaches the soft ball stage?
To check if the mixture has reached the soft ball stage, you can use a candy thermometer to measure the temperature at 234°F. Alternatively, drop a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water; if it forms a soft ball that can be easily flattened, it's ready to be removed from the heat.
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).