Pecan Pralines Recipe

Description: Make and share this Pecan Pralines recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.

Cooking and Preparation Times

Recipe Category: Candy
Keywords: Dessert, Fruit, Nuts, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, < 30 Mins, For Large Groups, Easy

Nutritional Information per Serving (36 servings):
Calories: 91.4
Fat Content: 4.4 g
Saturated Fat Content: 0.4 g
Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
Sodium Content: 3.3 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 13.6 g
Fiber Content: 0.6 g
Sugar Content: 12.7 g
Protein Content: 0.6 g

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup marshmallows
• 4 cups pecans
• 2 cups Dr. Pepper

Servings: 36

Instructions

1. Mixing the Sugars and Dr. Pepper:
   Begin by taking a heavy saucepan and combining the white sugar, dark brown sugar, and Dr. Pepper. Place the saucepan over low heat. 🍬

2. Dissolving the Sugar:
   Stir constantly to ensure all the sugar dissolves completely. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your pralines, creating a smooth, sweet mixture that will bind the pecans and marshmallows perfectly. 🍭

3. Forming the Soft Ball Stage:
   Continue stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage. To test this, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water – it should form a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water. This is a traditional candy-making technique that ensures the right consistency. 🧊

4. Removing from Heat:
   Once the soft ball stage is achieved, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Timing is key here to maintain the perfect texture for your pralines. ⏲️

5. Adding Marshmallows and Pecans:
   Quickly add the marshmallows and pecans to the hot mixture. The heat will start to melt the marshmallows, making the mixture creamy and binding the pecans together. 🥜

6. Beating the Mixture:
   Beat the mixture vigorously until it begins to cream. This step requires some elbow grease but is essential for achieving the classic praline texture – creamy with a slight graininess from the sugars. 💪

7. Dropping the Patties:
   While the mixture is still hot, drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a non-stick surface. Work quickly because the mixture hardens very fast once it starts to cool. Each spoonful should form a small patty. 🍪

8. Cooling the Pralines:
   Allow the pralines to cool completely on the baking sheet. They will harden as they cool, forming a delightful candy that is both crunchy from the pecans and creamy from the sugar mixture. ❄️

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pecan Pralines

• Consistency of the Syrup: Ensuring the sugar mixture reaches the correct stage (soft ball) is crucial. If the mixture is undercooked, your pralines will not set properly. Overcooked syrup will result in brittle pralines.

• Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans enhance the flavor and texture of your pralines. Toasting the pecans lightly before adding them can bring out even more of their nutty flavor.

• Marshmallow Alternative: If you prefer not to use marshmallows, you can substitute them with a small amount of heavy cream and butter to achieve a similar creamy texture.

• Work Quickly: Once you remove the mixture from the heat and add the pecans and marshmallows, you need to work quickly to drop the pralines onto the baking sheet before the mixture hardens. Having everything prepped and ready will help speed up this process.

• Storage: Store your pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks, but they’re often eaten much quicker! If you live in a humid climate, consider storing them in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming sticky.

• Presentation: For a festive touch, you can wrap each praline in a small piece of wax paper and tie it with a ribbon. This makes them perfect for gift-giving or serving at a party. 🎁

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Pecan Pralines: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the mixture just after removing it from the heat. The chocolate will melt and mix into the pralines, creating a rich chocolate flavor.

• Bourbon Pecan Pralines: Add a splash of bourbon to the mixture for a sophisticated, adult twist. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind the deep, complex flavors of the bourbon.

• Spiced Pecan Pralines: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. This variation adds an exciting twist to the traditional praline.

Fun Facts

• Origin: Pecan pralines are a Southern delicacy in the United States, particularly popular in Louisiana. They are derived from French pralines, which are made with almonds.

• Pronunciation: In the South, you’ll often hear them pronounced as “prah-leens” or “pray-leens,” depending on the region.

• Cultural Significance: Pralines are often enjoyed during Mardi Gras and other Southern celebrations. They are a staple at many New Orleans candy shops.

Enjoy making these delicious pecan pralines and sharing them with your friends and family. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. 🍬❤️