Classic New Orleans Pralines Recipe

A delicious Southern treat that combines creamy caramel with crunchy pecans

Basic Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 20-24 pralines
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Required Tools

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan or candy pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
• Candy thermometer
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large baking sheet or work surface

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
• 1 cup brown sugar (200g)
• 2 cups pecans (chopped, about 230g)
• 1/2 cup whole milk (120ml)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (60ml)
• 2 tablespoons butter (30g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Detailed Instructions

Preparation

1. Line a large baking sheet or work surface with parchment paper
2. Measure all ingredients accurately
3. Chop pecans into medium-sized pieces (if needed)

Cooking Process

1. Combine Base Ingredients
   • Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and heavy cream in a heavy-bottomed saucepan
   • Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves completely
2. Heat to Proper Temperature
   • Insert candy thermometer into the mixture
   • Continue heating until temperature reaches 236-238°F (113-114°C)
   • Stir frequently to prevent burning
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
   • Add butter, stir until completely melted
   • Mix in chopped pecans
   • Add vanilla extract and salt
   • Continue stirring until mixture becomes cloudy and slightly thickens
4. Shaping
   • Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto prepared parchment paper
   • Use about 2-3 tablespoons per praline
   • Allow them to spread naturally into circles
5. Cooling
   • Cool completely at room temperature (about 30 minutes)
   • Do not move or touch pralines while cooling

Key Tips

1. Temperature Control
   • Using a candy thermometer is crucial
   • Too high temperature will result in hard candy
   • Too low temperature won’t allow proper setting
2. Stirring Technique
   • Stir continuously during heating
   • Pay special attention when mixture starts becoming cloudy
   • Stop stirring and start dropping immediately if crystallization begins
3. Weather Considerations
   • Humid weather can affect setting process
   • Best to make on dry days
   • May need to increase temperature by 1-2 degrees

Storage Instructions

• Keeps at room temperature for 1-2 weeks
• Store in an airtight container
• Separate layers with parchment paper
• Refrigeration not recommended as it affects texture

Troubleshooting

Why aren’t my pralines setting?

• Temperature might not have reached required point
• Insufficient stirring time
• Ingredient proportions may be incorrect

Why are they crystallizing?

• Over-stirring
• Temperature too high
• Disturbed during cooling process

Can I change the type of nuts?

• Other nuts can be used, but pecans are traditional
• Almonds and cashews make good alternatives
• Adjust roasting level of nuts accordingly

Variations

1. Chocolate Version
   • Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder at the end
   • Or garnish with chocolate chips
2. Spiced Version
   • Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • Or include a pinch of cardamom
3. Spirited Version
   • Add 1 tablespoon bourbon
   • Or flavor with rum

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 40g):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 50mg

Remember: Making pralines requires patience and precision, but once you master the technique, you’ll be able to create these delicious traditional Southern candies. Happy candy making!