Southern pralines are a classic confection made from sugar, butter, cream, and pecans. These sweet, nutty treats are a staple in Southern cooking, particularly in Louisiana. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply as a delightful homemade candy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make the South’s best pralines step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons dark corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Line Baking Sheets:
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. This will prevent the pralines from sticking once they’re placed on the sheets.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar, 3 tablespoons dark corn syrup, 1 cup evaporated milk, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
- Heat the Mixture:
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a boil.
Step 3: Add the Pecans and Butter
- Add Pecans and Butter:
- Once the mixture starts to boil, add 1 1/2 cups pecan halves and 2 tablespoons butter. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 235°F (113°C) on a candy thermometer. This is known as the soft-ball stage.
Step 4: Cool Slightly and Add Vanilla
- Remove from Heat:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to ensure the pralines have the right consistency.
- Add Vanilla:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Step 5: Beat the Mixture
- Beat Until Thickened:
- Using a wooden spoon or a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it thickens and loses some of its gloss. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be thick but still pourable.
Step 6: Drop the Pralines
- Form the Pralines:
- Quickly drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, forming individual pralines. Work quickly, as the mixture will begin to set as it cools.
Step 7: Cool and Set
- Let Pralines Cool:
- Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature. They should harden as they cool.
Step 8: Store and Serve
- Store:
- Store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be stored for up to two weeks, although they are best enjoyed fresh.
- Serve:
- Serve the pralines as a sweet treat after meals, or package them up as delightful homemade gifts.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Temperature: Using a candy thermometer is essential to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature for the pralines to set properly.
- Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Timing: Work quickly when dropping the pralines onto the baking sheets, as the mixture will begin to set rapidly as it cools.
Variations
Chocolate Pralines
- Add Chocolate:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips just before dropping the pralines onto the baking sheets. The residual heat will melt the chocolate, creating a rich chocolatey twist.
Bourbon Pralines
- Add Bourbon:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of bourbon with the vanilla extract for a boozy, Southern twist.
Spiced Pralines
- Add Spices:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk? A: Evaporated milk is recommended for its thicker consistency and richer flavor, which helps the pralines set properly. Regular milk may not yield the same results.
Q: How do I know when the mixture has reached the soft-ball stage? A: Using a candy thermometer is the most accurate way to determine this. The mixture should reach 235°F (113°C). Alternatively, you can drop a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed, it’s ready.
Q: Can I make pralines without a candy thermometer? A: While it’s possible to make pralines without a candy thermometer, it’s more challenging to get the temperature just right. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the cold water test described above.
Q: How do I store pralines? A: Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for up to two weeks but are best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I freeze pralines? A: Freezing pralines is not recommended, as it can affect their texture. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them at room temperature.
Q: What can I do if my pralines don’t set properly? A: If your pralines don’t set, they may not have reached the correct temperature. You can try re-cooking the mixture to reach the soft-ball stage or enjoy them as a caramel sauce over ice cream.
Q: Can I use different nuts? A: While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
The South’s Best Pralines are a sweet, nutty treat that captures the essence of Southern cooking. With their rich caramel flavor and crunchy pecans, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these pralines are easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Southern treat with your family and friends!
