Pralines(From The Files Of Viola Clark Williams)
Creamy, nutty pralines with rich caramel flavor and a hint of vanilla and maple syrup, perfect for sweet gifting or indulgent snacking, appealing to candy lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine baking soda with buttermilk in a small bowl.
- Put sugar, buttermilk, and margarine in a large heavy-bottomed pot.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture changes color and forms a lump when dropped in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Add 3 cups broken nuts, vanilla, and maple syrup to the mixture.
- Fold continually, about 190 strokes, until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper over newspaper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the margarine is fully melted before adding it to the sugar mixture. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting half the margarine with butter. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor as well. Be sure to use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning, and keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pralines make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. For a decadent dessert, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumbling them over a slice of No Fat Chocolate Cake. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, it's best to refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. To soften the pralines after refrigeration, simply leave them out for a few minutes before serving or microwave them for a few seconds on low power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pralines(From The Files Of Viola Clark Williams) contains roughly 1555 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 160g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2598mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just ensure that any nuts you use are roasted for added flavor, and adjust the quantity if they have a different density than the original recipe calls for.
What should I do if my pralines don't set properly?
If your pralines are too soft, it may be due to not cooking the mixture long enough. You can reheat the mixture gently and boil it a bit longer. Alternatively, if they are very soft, you can refrigerate them for a firmer texture. Just remember that the cold will make them harden, so adjust as needed.
Can I make pralines without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. For every cup of buttermilk needed, use 1 cup of milk and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for about 5 minutes before using. This will help achieve a similar tangy flavor.
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).