Creamy New Orleans Pralines |
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Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cook Time: 30 Minutes |
Ready In: 50 Minutes Servings: 12 |
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Worth the effort to master the art of praline-making. Give as gifts, great for holiday parties or to bring to the office. See note below for the option of toasted pecans. Ingredients:
3 cups chopped pecans |
2 cups light brown sugar, packed |
1 cup granulated sugar |
1 1/2 cups heavy cream |
1/3 cup whole milk |
6 tablespoons butter, unsalted |
3/4 teaspoon salt |
1 teaspoon vanilla extract |
Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cream, milk, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, to 230°F Lower heat slightly if the mixture threatens to boil over.
2. Add the pecans and continue cooking, stirring constantly, to 236°F The mixture should form a soft ball when a little is dropped in cold water. Remove from the heat and add vanilla; let stand for about 5 minutes. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is thickened and slightly creamy, about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
3. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, spoon the pralines onto a sheet of parchment paper or waxed paper. If the mixture becomes grainy, heat and stir over medium heat for a few seconds, or until it can be easily scooped and dropped.
4. Optional Toasted Pecans:.
5. Heat oven to 350°. Spread chopped pecans out on a large baking sheet. Bake for about 5 minutes, or until the chopped pecans are lightly browned and aromatic. This can also be achieved by microwaving pecans on a microwave-safe plate in 30 second increments.
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