Louisiana Creamy Pralines

Louisiana Creamy Pralines Recipe - Delicious Dessert from USA

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

Introduction

Louisiana Creamy Pralines are a classic Southern treat that are sweet, creamy, and packed with pecans. These delicious candies are a staple in Louisiana cuisine and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

History

Pralines have been a beloved treat in Louisiana for centuries, with their origins dating back to French settlers in the 17th century. The combination of sugar, butter, and pecans quickly became a favorite in the region, and the addition of evaporated milk in the creamy version of pralines added a unique twist to the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups of sugar
1 tsp of baking soda
0.75 cups of evaporated milk
0.25 cups of clear corn syrup
approximately 1.5 cups of fresh pecans
1 tbsp of butter
1 tsp of vanilla extract

How to prepare

In a heavy pot, combine sugar, baking soda, evaporated milk, and corn syrup.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a soft ball in water (approximately 235°F (113°C)).
Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and pecans.
Beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens enough to be dropped by spoonful onto wax paper.
Allow the mixture to cool and store it in an airtight container.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pralines for a sweet and salty twist.
Use different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, in place of pecans for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature for the perfect texture.

- Allow the pralines to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming sticky.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Louisiana Creamy Pralines as a sweet treat on their own, or serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Use a heavy pot to prevent the mixture from burning.

- Stir constantly to ensure the sugar melts evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or honey in place of corn syrup for a different flavor.

- Use almond or coconut milk in place of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Louisiana Creamy Pralines can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Louisiana Creamy Pralines with a glass of bourbon or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Louisiana 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 Louisiana Creamy Pralines contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Louisiana Creamy Pralines contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Louisiana Creamy Pralines contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Louisiana Creamy Pralines contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Louisiana Creamy Pralines are a good source of vitamin E and magnesium from the pecans.

Alergens

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

Summary

Louisiana Creamy Pralines are a sweet and indulgent treat that are high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provide some essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Louisiana Creamy Pralines are a delicious and indulgent treat that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a rich history and a unique flavor, these candies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day in Louisiana, and my dear friend Mabel had invited me over for a cooking lesson. She had promised to teach me how to make her famous creamy pralines, a sweet treat that was beloved by all who tasted it. As soon as she handed me the recipe card, I knew I was in for a delicious adventure.

Mabel had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a closely guarded secret, and I felt honored that she was willing to share it with me. As we gathered the ingredients and prepared to start cooking, Mabel began to tell me the story of how she had first learned to make pralines.

"It all started when I was just a little girl," Mabel began, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "My grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, mixing and stirring and creating the most wonderful dishes. I would sit at her feet, watching in awe as she worked her magic. One day, she asked me if I wanted to help her make pralines, and I jumped at the chance."

Mabel's grandmother had shown her how to carefully measure out the sugar and cream, how to stir the mixture constantly to prevent it from burning, and how to test the candy's consistency by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. It was a lesson in patience and precision, and Mabel had soaked up every word.

"I'll never forget the first batch of pralines we made together," Mabel said, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "They were gooey and sticky and absolutely delicious. I knew right then and there that I wanted to carry on my grandmother's tradition and pass the recipe down to future generations."

As Mabel and I worked together in the kitchen, following the recipe card to the letter, I felt a deep sense of connection to her and to the long line of women who had come before us. The scent of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans filled the air, and I knew that we were creating something truly special.

As the pralines cooled on the countertop, Mabel poured us each a cup of hot tea and we sat down at the kitchen table to enjoy our handiwork. The pralines were rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. They melted in my mouth, leaving behind a lingering taste of nostalgia and love.

"Thank you for teaching me this recipe, Mabel," I said, wiping a stray tear from my eye. "I feel like I've been welcomed into a secret sisterhood of cooks, bound together by our love of good food and family traditions."

Mabel smiled warmly and patted my hand. "You're welcome, my dear. Cooking is so much more than just preparing meals – it's a way to connect with the past, to create memories, and to show love to those around us. I'm so glad that I could share this special recipe with you."

And so, with a full heart and a belly full of pralines, I left Mabel's kitchen that day feeling inspired and grateful. I knew that I would carry on the tradition of making Louisiana creamy pralines, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, just as Mabel had done for me. And with each batch that I made, I would be reminded of the love and camaraderie that had gone into creating this sweet and delicious treat.