Texas Pecan Pralines
My praline recipe is special to me for I received it from my mother, who was an excellent cook! I also am a Texas Aggie Mom and I use pecans from a South Texas Aggie grower that our Aggie Mom's club has purchased from for many years. The quality is outstanding and far better than you will find in any grocery store. —Carol Jones, Blue Ridge, Texas
My praline recipe is special to me for I received it from my mother, who was an excellent cook! I also am a Texas Aggie Mom and I use pecans from a South Texas Aggie grower that our Aggie Mom's club has purchased from for many years. The quality is outstanding and far better than you will find in any grocery store. —Carol Jones, Blue Ridge, Texas
- Carbohydrate 177.772881254399 g
- Cholesterol 207.674062668598 mg
- Fat 189.912005686111 g
- Fiber 15.696000623703 g
- Protein 25.2726618785208 g
- Saturated Fat 55.6862625385754 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -1/4 pounds. (681g)
- Sodium 56511.7306608057 mg
- Sugar 162.076880630696 g
- Trans Fat 10.2013571290639 g
- Calories 2416 calories
Step-by-step
- Line 3 baking sheets with foil and grease the foil with 1 teaspoon butter each; set aside.
- In a large heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt cubed butter. Stir in sugars, cream, milk, corn syrup and salt; cook and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until a candy thermometer reads 236° (soft-ball stage), about 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat; stir in pecans and vanilla. Cool, without stirring, to 170 degrees, about 20 minutes. Stir with a wooden spoon until mixture just begins to thicken but is still glossy, about 2 minutes.
- Quickly drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets. Let stand until pralines are set and no longer glossy. Refrigerate until completely set, about 1 hour. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Texas Pecan Pralines: A Sweet Tradition
The aroma of warm pecans and melting sugar – it's a scent that instantly transports me back to my childhood. My mother, a truly exceptional cook, made these Texas Pecan Pralines every holiday season. The kitchen would be filled with the comforting sounds of bubbling sugar and the sweet, nutty fragrance that promised delicious treats to come. This recipe isn't just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it's a piece of our family history, passed down through generations, a tradition I cherish and continue to share with my loved ones. The secret ingredient? Love, of course, and a generous helping of pecans from a special source.
As a Texas Aggie Mom, I've been fortunate enough to connect with a local grower who supplies our Aggie Mom's club with the most incredible pecans. The quality is simply unmatched; these pecans are richer, more flavorful, and possess a delightful crunch that elevates these pralines to a whole new level. You won't find pecans like these in any grocery store; their superior quality is evident in every bite. The subtle sweetness of the brown sugar, the richness of the cream, and the satisfying crunch of the pecans perfectly complement each other creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Each praline is a tiny, irresistible bite of Texas heritage and family love.
Making these pralines is more than just following a recipe; it's an experience. The careful melting of the butter, the precise timing of the cooking process, and the gentle stirring all contribute to the final result. It's a labor of love, a testament to the importance of family recipes and the memories they hold. The process is surprisingly simple, but the result is truly extraordinary. And that's the beauty of it all - a relatively straightforward process that yields a stunningly delicious treat.
The process of making these pralines has always been a family affair. My children, now grown and with families of their own, remember helping me in the kitchen, carefully measuring ingredients, and patiently waiting for the cooling process. The anticipation is almost as rewarding as the final taste. This isn't just about cooking, it's about creating memories, sharing traditions, and passing on the love for this wonderful dessert to the next generation.
These Texas Pecan Pralines are more than just a sweet treat; they are a symbol of family, tradition, and the enduring love shared through generations. They're a taste of home, a reminder of cherished memories, and a delicious way to celebrate the holidays or any special occasion. So gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and embark on this culinary journey. You’ll not only create delicious pralines but also some treasured memories in the process. The aroma alone is worth the effort. The result? An unforgettable experience and a taste of Texas hospitality.
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe serves as a jumping off point. Feel free to experiment! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of bourbon for a unique twist. Consider using different nuts, like walnuts or pecans. The possibilities are endless! But remember, the key is to find high-quality ingredients – your taste buds will thank you for it.
Whether you are a seasoned baker or a complete novice, these pralines are a rewarding project. They're perfect for gifting during the holidays or sharing with loved ones. The rich, nutty, and sweet flavor is an excellent complement to coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. Enjoy the process and share the delicious results with those you hold dear. The smiles on their faces will be the sweetest reward of all.
These pralines are more than just a dessert; they are a reminder of the importance of slowing down, enjoying the moment, and cherishing the simple pleasures in life. They are a gift from the heart, a tangible expression of love and family tradition, and a delightful addition to any gathering or special occasion. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and create some sweet memories of your own.
