Praline Pecans
Sweet and crunchy praline pecans with caramelized sugar coating, perfect as a snack or gift, appealing to those who love rich, nutty flavors with a crispy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter.
- Mix sugar and salt, then beat the egg whites until frothy.
- Fold the sugar mixture into the beaten egg whites.
- Add pecan halves to the mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Spread the coated pecans in a pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until brown.
- Liquid will absorb during baking.
- Stir the pecans every 10 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even coating.
- Remove from oven and place on wax paper to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the sugar mixture. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. Ensure that the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume. Stirring the pecans every 10 minutes is crucial for even baking and preventing sticking. This recipe is great for holiday gifts or as a snack.
Serving Suggestions
These praline pecans make a delightful topping for salads or desserts, adding a sweet crunch. They pair beautifully with a slice of Sara Lee Coffee Cake or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack. Consider serving them alongside cheese platters or as an elegant addition to holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover praline pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To refresh their crunchiness, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, making sure they don't burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Praline Pecans contains roughly 311 calories, with 13g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty flavor. The salted butter will add a nice depth to the praline pecans, enhancing their overall taste.
What can I do if my pecans aren't browning during baking?
If the pecans aren't browning as expected, ensure your oven is properly preheated and consider baking them a few minutes longer. Stirring every 10 minutes helps with even browning, so make sure to follow that step closely to achieve the desired color and texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Whip the aquafaba until frothy, and proceed with the rest of the recipe as usual for a delicious vegan treat.
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).