Buttermilk Pecan Pralines are a delightful Southern treat that combines the creamy sweetness of buttermilk with the crunch of toasted pecans. These melt-in-your-mouth candies are perfect for holidays, gifts, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
The balance of creamy and nutty flavors is pure magic.
Perfect for gifting or serving at celebrations.
Requires simple ingredients and is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
You’ll need a few pantry staples and some pecans to whip up these pralines. Here’s a partial list:
- Granulated sugar
- Buttermilk
- Pecans (toasted for extra flavor!)
You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements below.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. Toast the pecans for a deeper, nuttier flavor if desired.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, buttermilk, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a steady boil. Cook until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (about 234–240°F). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect praline texture.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Flavor
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the toasted pecans, butter, and vanilla extract. Work quickly, as the mixture starts to set rapidly.
Step 5: Drop and Cool
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the praline mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool completely before serving.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a candy thermometer: Precision is key when making pralines, so a candy thermometer is your best friend.
- Work quickly: Once the mixture is off the heat, it sets fast. Be prepared to scoop immediately.
- Toast the pecans: Toasting the nuts elevates their flavor and adds an extra layer of richness.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- Use half-and-half instead of buttermilk for a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These pralines are wonderful on their own but can also be served alongside coffee, tea, or ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience. You can even crumble them over cakes or pies for an added crunch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If they lose their shine, a quick zap in the microwave (5–10 seconds) can restore their texture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these without a candy thermometer?
Yes, you can use the soft-ball test: Drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
Q2: Why are my pralines grainy?
Graininess can happen if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved. Make sure to stir thoroughly while cooking.
Q3: Can I freeze pralines?
Absolutely. Wrap them individually in wax paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Q4: What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Conclusion
Making Buttermilk Pecan Pralines at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of the South to your kitchen. These sweet, nutty candies are sure to impress anyone who tries them, whether you’re sharing them as gifts or savoring them yourself. Ready to give this recipe a try? Let’s get cooking!
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Buttermilk Pecan Pralines
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 pralines 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich and buttery, these Buttermilk Pecan Pralines are classic Southern treats with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty sweetness. Perfect for gifting, parties, or satisfying your sweet tooth, these pralines are a delightful indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, buttermilk, butter, and baking soda. Stir to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 235–240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecan halves. Continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken and lose its gloss.
- Quickly spoon the mixture onto parchment or wax paper, forming small mounds.
- Let the pralines cool and set completely before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate results.
- Work quickly when spooning out the pralines as they set fast.
- If the mixture hardens before you’re done, gently reheat to soften
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg