Are you craving a sweet treat that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen? Look no further than these delightful Louisiana Pralines. Rich, buttery, and filled with crunchy pecans, these candies are a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for indulging in a bit of homemade goodness. Follow along with this simple recipe to create your own batch of these delectable sweets that are sure to impress your friends and family.
**Louisiana Pralines**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup white sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup evaporated milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and setting it aside. This will provide a non-stick surface for the pralines to cool on later.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugars have dissolved and the butter has melted completely. This process will take around 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan. Allow the mixture to cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is around 238°F (114°C). This should take approximately 10-15 minutes. Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and pecan halves. Mix well to ensure that the pecans are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small mounds of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to work quickly as the mixture will begin to thicken as it cools.
6. Allow the Louisiana Pralines to cool completely at room temperature until firm. This will take about 30-45 minutes.
7. Once the pralines have set, you can enjoy them right away or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence. These candies make wonderful gifts for loved ones or a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Whether you have a special occasion coming up or simply want to treat yourself to something decadent, these Louisiana Pralines are sure to hit the spot. With their rich flavor and irresistible crunch, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again. Take a culinary trip to the South with these delightful candies and savor the taste of homemade goodness.
