Introducing a delectable treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans and the smooth essence of liqueur: Pecan Liqueur Pralines! These irresistible confections are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings and impressing your guests with their indulgent taste and elegant presentation. Crafted with care and precision, each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more. Let’s dive into the delightful journey of creating these exquisite Pecan Liqueur Pralines.
Pecan Liqueur Pralines
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 small patties
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecan liqueur
Instructions:
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Combine Sugars and Milk: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, salt, and milk. Stir well to ensure the sugars are fully dissolved into the milk, creating a smooth mixture.
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Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook the mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is around 235°F to 240°F (113°C to 116°C). This process may take approximately 10-15 minutes, so be patient and keep a close eye on the temperature.
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Add Pecans and Liqueur: Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the chopped pecans and pecan liqueur, combining them thoroughly with the sugar mixture. The aromatic essence of the liqueur will infuse the pralines with a delightful flavor and aroma.
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Beat Until Stiff: Using a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes stiff and starts to thicken. This step should take around a minute or so, and you’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly lighter in color and gaining a creamy consistency.
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Drop Quickly onto Wax Paper: Working swiftly, drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto sheets of wax paper, creating small patties or clusters. Make sure to space them apart to prevent sticking. As the mixture cools, it will firm up, so it’s essential to work efficiently to shape the pralines before they set.
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Allow to Cool and Set: Once all the pralines are formed, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. As they cool, they will harden and set into deliciously decadent treats with a perfect blend of crunchy pecans and creamy sweetness.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the pralines have cooled and set, they are ready to be enjoyed! Arrange them on a serving platter or package them in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. These Pecan Liqueur Pralines are ideal for serving at parties, gatherings, or simply indulging in as a delightful dessert whenever you crave a sweet treat.
With their irresistible combination of crunchy pecans, smooth liqueur, and sweet caramelized sugar, these Pecan Liqueur Pralines are sure to become a favorite indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a soirée, celebrating a special milestone, or simply treating yourself to a moment of culinary bliss, these homemade pralines are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and embark on a culinary adventure to create these irresistible treasures that are bound to bring joy and sweetness to every bite.
