Creamy Pralines

Creamy Pralines Recipe from USA - Ingredients: Brown Sugar, Evaporated Milk, Butter, Pecans.

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Creamy pralines are a delicious and indulgent treat that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These rich and creamy candies are made with a combination of brown sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and pecans, creating a decadent and nutty flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Pralines have a long history that dates back to the 17th century in France. Originally made with almonds and caramelized sugar, pralines eventually made their way to the southern United States where pecans were used instead of almonds. The addition of evaporated milk and butter helped create the creamy texture that we know and love today.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) light brown sugar
0.13 tsp salt
0.75 cup evaporated milk
1 tbsp butter
2 cups pecan halves

How to prepare

In a heavy pot, mix together the sugar, salt, milk, and butter.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
Add the pecans and cook over medium heat, stirring often, until it reaches the soft ball stage (234 to 240°F or 116°C on a candy thermometer).
Remove the pot from heat.
Allow the mixture to cool for a couple of minutes, then stir rapidly until it begins to thicken and lightly coats the pecans.
Drop the mixture by tablespoons onto wax or parchment paper.
Once the pralines have cooled, gently lift them from the surface with a knife and store them in an airtight container.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pralines for a sweet and salty flavor.
Mix in some chopped chocolate or caramel for an extra indulgent treat.
Use different nuts such as almonds or walnuts for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent burning.

- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the soft ball stage for the perfect texture.

- Allow the pralines to cool slightly before stirring to achieve the desired consistency.

- Store the pralines in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy creamy pralines as a sweet snack or dessert on their own, or serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious treat.

Cooking Techniques

Cook the praline mixture over low heat to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a richer flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for evaporated milk for a dairy-free alternative.

- Swap out the pecans for your favorite nuts such as almonds or walnuts.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the praline mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to drop onto wax paper and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the creamy pralines on a decorative platter or in a gift box for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve creamy pralines with a glass of bourbon or whiskey for a classic southern treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store creamy pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of creamy pralines contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of creamy pralines contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of creamy pralines contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of creamy pralines contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy pralines are a good source of calcium and iron.

Alergens

Creamy pralines contain nuts (pecans) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Creamy pralines are a sweet and indulgent treat that are high in carbohydrates and fats, but also contain some protein and important vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy pralines are a delicious and indulgent treat that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a rich and creamy texture and a nutty flavor, these candies are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert, or give them as a thoughtful homemade gift.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the deep South. My grandmother, Mama Lou, was known far and wide for her delicious pralines. People would come from all around just to get a taste of her creamy, sugary confections.

I remember watching her carefully measure out the ingredients, stirring the pot with a wooden spoon as the mixture bubbled and thickened. The smell of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I would stand by her side, eager to learn the secrets of her famous pralines.

One day, as Mama Lou was making a batch of pralines, she beckoned me over to the stove. "Pay attention, child," she said, her voice soft and gentle. "This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. You must learn how to make it so that you can carry on the tradition."

I watched intently as she added the sugar, cream, and butter to the pot, stirring slowly and constantly to prevent the mixture from burning. The scent of caramelized sugar filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl with hunger. As she added the pecans and vanilla extract, the mixture thickened and took on a creamy texture.

"Now, this is the most important part," Mama Lou said, as she carefully dropped spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of wax paper. "You have to work quickly before it hardens, but be careful not to burn yourself."

I watched in awe as she shaped the hot praline mixture into perfect little rounds, each one a golden brown color with specks of toasted pecans throughout. She handed me a spoon and instructed me to try shaping one myself. It was tricky at first, but with her guidance, I soon got the hang of it.

We let the pralines cool on the counter, the scent of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans wafting through the air. Mama Lou smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You did well, child," she said. "You have a knack for this. One day, you will be able to make pralines just as good as mine."

From that day on, I became Mama Lou's apprentice in the art of praline-making. I watched her every move, learning the nuances of the recipe and perfecting my technique. I soon became known in the community for my delicious pralines, just like Mama Lou.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of pralines, each one a tribute to Mama Lou and the tradition she passed down to me. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of creamy, sugary pralines far and wide.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling praline mixture just like Mama Lou taught me so many years ago, I can't help but smile. The smell of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans fills the air, bringing back memories of my beloved grandmother and the legacy she left behind.

As I shape the hot praline mixture into perfect little rounds, I know that Mama Lou is watching over me, proud of the woman I have become. And as I take a bite of a warm, creamy praline, I can almost hear her voice whispering in my ear, "Well done, child. You have truly mastered the art of praline-making."