By Kelly Bogard

June 24 is National Praline Day. You know, the super sugary and crisp candies made just to transport buttery pecans. Well, at least that is how I like to think of them. This has to be my all-time favorite confection.

My love for them started around age five at the Mexican food restaurant where my parents took us every Friday night. At the end of every meal, when my dad would go to pay the bill, I would see them wrapped on the counter. They were always fresh and crisp. The golden brown color and the sugar-to-pecan ratio was perfect. So I thought I would share my quick and easy way to make them today.

For Microwave Pralines, you will need…Microwave Pralines
2 cups pecans, chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
¼ cup salted butter, cubed
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
2 tsp. vanilla
½ tsp. salt

I think my favorite part about a praline is if it is made just right, they will melt away in your mouth. Now my favorite part about making microwave pralines is I have a much lower risk of burning myself with the melted sugar. I know it is tempting to taste as you are cooking, but you CANNOT touch hot or melting sugar. The burns are horrible, and I don’t want anyone getting hurt over candy.

First things, first. Combine all of the ingredients in a large glass bowl. I usually try to find one with a pour lip on one side so they are easier to pour later.
Microwave Pralines

Next, cook the mixture in the microwave on high for 10 minutes, stopping to stir every two minutes with a rubber or silicone spatula. This is the part where you want to use your finger to scrape the spatula. DON’T DO IT! Use the side of the bowl and then keep the hot liquid away from your skin.
Microwave Pralines

Once the sugars are completely broken down and liquid, pour it into cookie-sized pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Microwave Pralines

Set aside and let cool for two to three hours. Finally peel away from the paper and store in an airtight container.
Microwave Pralines

I’m not sure where they originated, but I tip my hat to the person who came up with these sweet little candies. I hope you make time for a praline or two this Tuesday. From all of us at Texas Table Top, enjoy!

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Recipe: Microwave Pralines

Summary: Texas candies made sweet and easy

Ingredients

Microwave Pralines

  • 2 cups pecans, chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup salted butter, cubed
  • 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tsp. vanilla
  • ½ tsp. salt

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients together in a glass bowl.
  • Cook on high in microwave for 10 minutes, stirring every two minutes with a rubber or silicone spatula.
  • Be careful not to get any of the hot sugar mixture on your skin.
  • Now liquid, pour cookie-sized pieces on lined baking sheets to cool.
  • Allow to cool for two to three hours.
  • Once cool, store in an airtight container.

Cooking time (duration): 0 hour(s), 10 minutes

Number of servings (yield): 2-3 dozen candies

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