Shirley'S Pecan Pralines
Sweet and crunchy pecan pralines with caramelized sugar and butter, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sugar, butter, Pet milk, white Karo, and salt until reaching the soft ball stage.
- Add the pecans to the mixture.
- Cook again until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and beat until the candy thickens.
- Spoon the mixture onto freezer or waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfect pralines, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. If you don't have Pet milk, you can substitute with whole milk or evaporated milk mixed with a bit of water. To avoid burning, stir constantly while cooking, especially as it approaches the soft ball stage. Using fresh pecans will enhance the flavor and texture of the pralines.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside a slice of Alma'S Pound Cake for a dessert spread. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a great addition to a brunch table. For a festive touch, consider packaging them as gifts during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if they become too hard, but be careful not to melt them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Pecan Pralines contains roughly 651 calories, with 10g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1766mg per serving (77% 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
What can I do if my pralines didn't set properly?
If your pralines are too soft, it's possible they didn't reach the right temperature. You can try cooking the mixture a bit longer and test the soft ball stage again. If they still don’t set, you might consider incorporating them into a topping for ice cream or mixing them into a dessert like Cheesecake.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile. Toasting the nuts slightly beforehand can enhance their taste. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as different nuts may require slight adjustments.
How can I make these pralines more decadent?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture before cooking. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines for a rich finish, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
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).