Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture thickens and starts to cool.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop the mixture onto the parchment paper in small rounds.
4. Let the pralines cool completely until they harden.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 12-15 pralines
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute the pecans with other nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of salt accordingly.
Variations:
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for added flavor.
- You can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines for a decadent touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the mixture constantly to prevent burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Let the pralines cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper.
Storage instructions:
- Store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- You can reheat the pralines in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pralines on a platter or in a decorative box for a special occasion.
Garnishes:
- You can garnish the pralines with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve the pralines with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet treat.
Suggested side dishes:
- These pralines are a dessert on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture doesn't harden, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Try cooking it for a few more minutes and testing it with a candy thermometer.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar, as it can cause serious burns.
Food history:
- Pralines originated in France in the 17th century and were originally made with almonds.
Flavor profiles:
- These pralines are sweet and nutty, with a hint of caramel.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pralines as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
Related Categories
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Region: American
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Creamy, Caramelized