Pecan Praline Squares
Sweet and nutty pecan praline squares feature caramelized sugar and crunchy pecans, offering a rich treat perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the brown sugar and granulated sugar in Pet milk and bring to a boil.
- Add butter and pecans, then cook until the syrup reaches the soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes without stirring.
- Beat until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Pour into a greased pan and let stand until at room temperature.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure that you reach the soft ball stage when cooking the syrup; a candy thermometer can be helpful. If Pet milk is unavailable, you can substitute with evaporated milk for a similar creamy texture. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely. Remember to stir gently while beating to avoid incorporating too much air.
Serving Suggestions
These Pecan Praline Squares are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a unique twist, try them alongside slices of Lemon Cake Bread to contrast the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Praline Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing as it may change the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Praline Squares contains roughly 1118 calories, with 8g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to chop them evenly to ensure they mix well into the syrup. Each type of nut will bring its unique taste to the squares.
What should I do if my mixture doesn't thicken?
If the mixture doesn't thicken after boiling, it may not have reached the soft ball stage. You can return it to the heat and cook it a little longer, checking with a candy thermometer. Alternatively, if it's too thick, you can mix in a small amount of warm milk to adjust the consistency.
Is it possible to make these squares vegan?
While the original recipe calls for butter and Pet milk, you can substitute vegan butter and coconut milk to make a delicious vegan version. This will maintain the rich flavor while adhering to plant-based diets.
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).