Tout De Suite Pralines
Sweet, crunchy pralines with rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4 or 5-quart glass or ceramic dish, stir together buttermilk, sugar, pecans, salt, and butter.
- Cook in microwave oven on High for 12 minutes, stirring at 4-minute intervals.
- Stir in baking soda until foamy.
- Cook on High for 1 minute to give the pralines a caramel color.
- Add vanilla and beat mixture until tacky, about 1 minute.
- Drop by teaspoon onto a sheet of foil or waxed paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before mixing with the other ingredients. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance the nutty flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before adding them. Stirring frequently during cooking helps prevent the mixture from overflowing.
Serving Suggestions
These pralines make a delightful treat by themselves and are perfect for gifting during the holidays. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with the 'No Cook' Fudge (Peanut Butter) for a dessert platter. For a special touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for about a week. If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. Reheat by placing them in a warm oven for a few minutes if they become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tout De Suite Pralines contains roughly 498 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1855mg per serving (81% 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. However, keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change. Ensure that the nuts are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution in the pralines.
What should I do if my praline mixture doesn't foam after adding baking soda?
If the mixture doesn't foam, it may be due to insufficient cooking time. Ensure that it reaches the correct temperature before adding the baking soda. If it still doesn't foam, it may not set properly, so it's essential to monitor the cooking process closely.
How can I prevent my pralines from sticking to the foil?
To prevent sticking, lightly grease the foil or waxed paper with butter or cooking spray before dropping the praline mixture. Alternatively, use parchment paper, which provides a non-stick surface and makes it easier to remove the pralines once they cool.
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).