While sugary confections may not be entirely healthy, pralines taste heavenly and make a great gift, especially during the holidays. Here is an excerpt from one of my articles - ENJOY!
A Perfect Recipe for Louisiana's Most Popular Candy
Louisiana is famous for a lot of things, but it is best known for its cuisine. As a native and lifelong resident, I must say that is truly a double edged sword. While it is wonderful living here, one must be careful not to overindulge!
Growing up, our neighbor across the street used to make pralines to give to the neighborhood children as Christmas gifts. I remember that being one of my favorite gifts, because her recipe was rich and creamy. There really is no other way to enjoy pralines.
One of the staples of our sinful diet, is pralines, a confection also commonly known as “pecan candy”. Over two hundred years ago, the candy was made in France, before being introduced to New Orleans. Upon its arrival in the Crescent City, the praline quickly became one of the most popular items of indulgence.
Below is a relatively simple recipe for pralines:
Ingredients
* 1½ cup of granulated sugar
* ¾ cup of light brown sugar (packed)
* ½ cup of Half & Half
* 1½ cups of pecans
* ½ stick of butter
* 1 teaspoon of vanilla
Mix all ingredients, except for the pecans and vanilla, together in a pot with a wooden spoon. I find the mixture works best when brought to a boil in a Magnalite pot. After bringing to a boil, turn down to a low boil. You should constantly stir the thick mixture, but be careful not to get any on yourself. Using a candy thermometer, repeat until the mixture reaches 239 degrees. Remove the pot from the heat and swiftly stir in the pecans and vanilla. Begin dropping spoonfuls onto cookie sheets covered in wax paper and allow them to cool there until hardened. You will want to make sure that the last step is done with a swiftness, as if you do not time it correctly, the confections will not properly harden.
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