Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pecans.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Candy thermometer temperature: 240°F
Serving size:
Makes about 24 pralines
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pecans can be substituted with other nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or coconut oil.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pralines for a decadent touch.
Tips and 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.
- Let the pralines cool completely before removing them from the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the pralines if they become too hard.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the pralines on a platter or in a decorative tin for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with sea salt or chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with coffee or tea for a sweet treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These pralines make a great dessert on their own, but can also be paired with vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for a more indulgent treat.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture becomes too thick or grainy, add a splash of water and continue stirring until smooth.
- If the pralines do not harden, the mixture may not have reached the correct temperature. Try cooking for a few more minutes and testing the temperature again.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot sugar mixtures, as they can cause severe burns. Use caution and keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
Food history:
Pralines originated in France and were brought to Louisiana by French settlers. They are now a popular Southern treat.
Flavor profiles:
These spiced pecan pralines are sweet, nutty, and warmly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these pralines as a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack with coffee or tea.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spicy, Caramelized