Pecan Spurs Or Pralines
Sweet and nutty pecan pralines with a rich caramel flavor, topped with chocolate for a decadent treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, dark syrup, butter, salt, and 2 cups of cream in a saucepan.
- Bring to boiling point, stirring constantly.
- Add the remaining cup of cream and cook slowly until mixture reaches the firm ball stage at 234°F.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Allow mixture to cool slightly, then fold in pecans.
- Spoon mixture onto a greased cookie sheet or a surface lined with foil.
- Let stand until cool and set.
- Melt chocolate over hot water, then spread onto the cooled pralines.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect firm ball stage, use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have dark syrup, you can substitute with light corn syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly. For a richer taste, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting for better emulsification.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these delicious pecan spurs or pralines as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with other confections during holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent stickiness. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if they become too hard, but be cautious not to melt the chocolate topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Spurs Or Pralines contains roughly 161 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 different nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, as each nut has its unique characteristics. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor regardless of the type used.
What should I do if the mixture doesn't reach the firm ball stage?
If your mixture doesn’t reach the firm ball stage after cooking, return it to the heat and keep stirring. It may need more time to cook. You can also test by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, cook for a few more minutes.
Can I make these pralines vegan?
To make a vegan version of these pralines, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use coconut cream instead of regular cream. Maple syrup can be a good substitute for dark syrup, but it will alter the flavor profile.
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).