Polly Day'S Pralines
Polly Day's Pralines are rich, sweet confections with crunchy pecans and caramelized sugar, perfect for those who love classic candy treats with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt in a heavy, deep pan.
- Cook briskly for 5 minutes on high heat, stirring constantly with a long-handled wooden spoon.
- Without ceasing the stirring process, add butter and pecans; continue cooking on high heat for an additional 5 minutes.
- Test the mixture by dropping a dab into cold water. If it does not form a soft ball, return to heat and cook for another minute.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve perfectly textured pralines, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for around 240°F (soft ball stage). If you don't have buttermilk, a mix of milk and vinegar or lemon juice can serve as a substitute. Stirring constantly is crucial to prevent burning, so keep a steady hand with your long-handled wooden spoon.
Serving Suggestions
Polly Day's Pralines make a delightful sweet treat on their own or can be served alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them as part of a dessert platter with other sweets like Kass's Pecan Lady Finger Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If the humidity is high, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes, but be cautious as this may alter their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polly Day'S Pralines contains roughly 152 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, while pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste and texture of the pralines.
What should I do if my pralines don't set?
If your pralines remain too soft after cooling, you can reheat the mixture gently and cook a little longer to reach the soft ball stage. Be sure to test again by dropping a small amount into cold water.
How can I prevent my pralines from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, ensure they are cooled completely on a parchment-lined baking sheet. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also help keep them separated, especially if you plan to stack or package them.
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).