Sharon'S Pralines
Sharon's Pralines are rich, buttery candies with crunchy pecans, offering a sweet, caramel-like flavor perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or gift-giving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar, soda, buttermilk, and salt together in a saucepan.
- Cook over heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add butter and pecans to the mixture.
- Continue cooking until the candy thermometer reaches 234°F.
- Remove from heat and beat the mixture until it becomes creamy.
- Drop the mixture by tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect praline texture, ensure your candy thermometer is calibrated correctly. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Stir constantly while cooking to prevent the mixture from scorching. If the pralines don't set, you can reheat them gently and try beating again until creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sharon's Pralines as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For an elegant presentation, arrange them on a decorative platter, and consider serving with fresh berries for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigeration may be better to maintain texture. To enjoy them later, simply bring them back to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharon'S Pralines contains roughly 106 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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
What can I use instead of buttermilk in this recipe?
If you don't have buttermilk, a quick substitute is to mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about five minutes to thicken slightly before using it in the recipe.
How do I know when the pralines are done cooking?
The pralines are done when the candy thermometer reads 234°F, which is the soft-ball stage. You can also test a small amount in cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape. Keep a close eye on the mixture as it cooks to avoid burning.
Can I add other nuts to the pralines?
Yes, you can customize your pralines by adding other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Just ensure the total amount of nuts remains at 2 1/2 cups. Experimenting with different nuts can create unique flavors that complement the sweetness of the pralines.
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).