Rich And Chewy Pralines

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 40 Cuisine: American

Rich and chewy pralines with caramelized sugar, toasted pecans, and creamy vanilla, perfect for candy lovers and suitable for gifting or indulgent treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 sticks margarine
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 1/2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 cup whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Cook sugar and corn syrup together until candy thermometer reaches 245°.
  2. Remove from heat and add butter. Stir until dissolved.
  3. Add whipping cream slowly. Return to heat and cook until candy thermometer again reaches 245°, stirring constantly.
  4. Add vanilla and pecans.
  5. Drop onto buttered foil. When cool, wrap in plastic wrap.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure your pralines are perfectly chewy, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you can't find light corn syrup, dark corn syrup can be used, but it will alter the flavor slightly. For a nuttier taste, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the mixture. Remember to work quickly when dropping the pralines onto the foil, as the mixture will harden as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

These rich and chewy pralines are a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make wonderful gifts during the holiday season when wrapped in decorative packaging. Consider serving them on a platter with other sweets for a festive dessert table.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerating them can help maintain their texture. To enjoy them slightly soft, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture and taste.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rich And Chewy Pralines contains roughly 99 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.

99 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0g
Total Fat 4.9g 6% DV
Carbs 10.9g 4% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 10.8g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 41.5mg 2% DV
Potassium 18mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 5.6mg
Iron 0.1mg
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 a different type of nut in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the pralines. Toasting the nuts can enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the final product.

What should I do if my pralines don't set properly?

If your pralines are too soft and don’t set, it may be due to not reaching the correct temperature during cooking. Try reheating the mixture slowly while stirring, and cook until it reaches 245°F again. Then, drop them onto the foil quickly to let them set properly.

How can I make these pralines more chocolatey?

For a chocolatey twist, you can fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines. Alternatively, you could substitute a portion of the sugar with cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor, but be mindful of the consistency.

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).

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