Description
Discover the exquisite taste of Pecan Delight Pralines, a dessert that trophies the sumptuous blend of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans. This recipe ventures beyond the classic praline by highlighting the natural richness of pecans enveloped in a creamy sweetness. Ideal for indulgent after-dinner treats or festive gatherings, these pralines promise to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 3 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 stick salted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 3 cups pecan halves, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
Combine the brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, light corn syrup, and salt in a large saucepan.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking or burning.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Once boiling, add the butter and let the mixture continue to low boil. Stir for 5-6 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 236-240°F on a candy thermometer.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in the chopped pecan halves and vanilla extract using a wooden spoon.
Step 5: Thicken the Mixture
Stir the mixture vigorously until it begins to thicken, roughly 3-4 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t solidify too quickly.
Step 6: Form the Pralines
When the candy thickens and achieves a consistency similar to melted peanut butter, quickly spoon out heaping portions onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 7: Cooling
Allow the pralines to cool and firm up for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature, ensuring they achieve a fudge-like texture.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe yields about 24 pralines. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of roughly 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes for the pralines to set.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- To refresh the pralines, briefly warm them in a microwave on low power, being cautious not to melt them.
- For long-term storage, pralines can be frozen in airtight containers and defrosted at room temperature when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Pecan Delight Pralines meld the earthy flavors of pecans with the sweet allure of caramelized sugar, delivering a luxurious treat that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual sweet fix, this praline recipe makes an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a touch of Southern dessert tradition at its finest.
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Pecan Delight Pralines
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 pralines 1x
Description
Discover the exquisite taste of Pecan Delight Pralines, a dessert that trophies the sumptuous blend of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans. This recipe ventures beyond the classic praline by highlighting the natural richness of pecans enveloped in a creamy sweetness. Ideal for indulgent after-dinner treats or festive gatherings, these pralines promise to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 3 cups brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 stick salted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 3 cups pecan halves, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Mixture Combine the brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, light corn syrup, and salt in a large saucepan.
- Step 2: Heat the Mixture Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking or burning.
- Step 3: Incorporate the Butter Once boiling, add the butter and let the mixture continue to low boil. Stir for 5-6 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 236-240°F on a candy thermometer.
- Step 4: Add Pecans and Vanilla Remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in the chopped pecan halves and vanilla extract using a wooden spoon.
- Step 5: Thicken the Mixture Stir the mixture vigorously until it begins to thicken, roughly 3-4 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t solidify too quickly.
- Step 6: Form the Pralines When the candy thickens and achieves a consistency similar to melted peanut butter, quickly spoon out heaping portions onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Step 7: Cooling Allow the pralines to cool and firm up for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature, ensuring they achieve a fudge-like texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes