Perfect Southern Pecan Pralines

Indulge in the sweet and nutty goodness of these Perfect Southern Pecan Pralines! Made with caramelized sugar, butter, and crunchy pecans, these treats are a must-have for any dessert lover.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

• 1. In a large saucepan, combine white sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
• 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
• 3. Remove from heat and stir in pecans and vanilla extract.
• 4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool before serving.

Popular Questions:

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
• A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but adjust the amount of additional salt in the recipe accordingly.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?

• A: Heavy cream is preferred for its richness, but you can use milk as a substitute for a lighter texture.

Q: How do I store these pecan pralines?

• A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

Q: Can I add other nuts besides pecans?

• A: Yes, you can experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variations in flavor and texture.

Helpful Tips:

• 1. Toast the pecans before adding to enhance their nutty flavor.
• 2. Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple for unique flavor profiles.
• 3. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.

Expert Secrets:

• 1. Use a wooden spoon for stirring the sugar mixture to prevent crystallization.
• 2. Be patient when cooking the sugar mixture, as rushing can lead to burnt pralines.
• 3. Allow the pralines to cool completely before removing from the baking sheet for best results.