Southern Pralines(In Microwave)
Sweet, creamy pralines with crunchy pecans and rich caramel flavor, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or serving as a delightful treat at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, evaporated milk, and salt in a 2-quart measuring cup (glass); mix well.
- Stir in butter.
- Microwave on High for 7 to 9 minutes or until mixture reaches soft ball stage (235°F), stirring once.
- Stir in pecans and cool about 1 minute.
- Beat by hand until mixture is creamy and begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.
- Drop by tablespoon onto waxed paper.
- Let stand until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your measuring cup is microwave-safe and large enough to prevent overflow during cooking. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds. Keep an eye on the mixture while microwaving, as microwave power levels can vary. To check the soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer or drop a bit of the mixture in cold water to see if it holds its shape.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines are perfect as a sweet treat on their own or as a delightful topping for vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter alongside other desserts like Shawn'S Hawaiian Fruit Cake or Oatmeal Shortbread during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause them to become too hard. If they do harden, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Pralines(In Microwave) contains roughly 412 calories, with 0g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1771mg 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
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar in this recipe. The pralines will have a richer flavor and darker color due to the higher molasses content in dark brown sugar.
What if I don't have evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts of milk and heavy cream. This will mimic the creaminess of evaporated milk and work well in the recipe.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Additionally, a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of your 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).