How to Microwave Mexican Buttermilk Pralines

Pralines consist of caramel-covered almonds or pecans that are combined with other ingredients like buttermilk, sugar and baking soda. The praline looks like a cookie and it has the consistency of fudge. It has roots that trace back to New Orleans, and now they are found throughout the south. Pralines are most notably found in Mexican restaurants throughout Texas. Make your own Mexican pralines at home using the microwave for a rich dessert.

Things You'll Need

• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 qt. microwave-safe bowl
• Candy thermometer
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• Electric mixer
• 1 cup pecans
• Wax paper
• Teaspoon
• Airtight container

Instructions

1. Combine 2 cups of white sugar, 1 tsp. of baking soda and 1 cup of buttermilk in a large 3 qt. microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 cup of butter.

2. Place the bowl in the microwave for five minutes on the medium-heat setting. Leave the bowl uncovered.

3. Stir the ingredients so that the butter blends into the mixture. Microwave the ingredients on medium-heat for 22 to 25 minutes or until the candy reaches the soft-ball stage.

4. Add 1 tsp. of vanilla and combine it into the mixture with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add 1 cup of pecans when you are almost finished beating the ingredients.

5. Drop the praline candy onto wax paper by the teaspoonful. Press them down lightly to make patties. Heat the mixture in the microwave if it becomes stiff.

6. Allow the candy to cool and become firm. Place the pralines in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

Tips & Warnings

• The softball stage on a candy thermometer consists of a temperature range between 235 and 240 degrees Fahrenheit. If you drop a small amount into very cold water, it will form into a ball but it will not hold its shape when you press on it.

• Remove the microwave-safe bowl from the microwave carefully because it can burn your skin. Wear pot holders to handle the bowl to prevent any burns.

References

• Cooks: Recipe: Microwave Pralines
• Recipe Source: New Orleans Pralines Recipe
• All Recipes: Buttermilk Pralines Recipe
• University of Illinois: Candymaking
• RFF Retailer: Blue Bell Mexican Praline Ice Cream
• Baking 911: Candy Chart