Ever heard of praline pecans? Oh well, they are the mouth watering southern treat that is a combination of pecan nuts and sugar syrup with cream incorporated in the mixture, as well. They are more common in the South, because in other places, they either use walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds in their praline. They just call it praline and not praline pecans. Why? Of course, because they're not made from pecan.

What is a Praline?

Basically, praline means a confection made from sugar syrup and nuts, it could be any kind of nuts. It originated in France during the seventeenth century. Back then, praline used to refer to almonds coated individually by caramelized sugar. The powder derived from grinding the sugar-coated nuts is what is called pralin. It is a common ingredient for cakes, ice-cream and pastries. And the mixture when combined with caramelized sugar is what is now called praline.

What is a Pecan?

Pecan nut on the other hand is a native to North Americans. It much resembles a walnut which has two (2) deep crinkled lobes of nutmeat. This type of nut has smooth brown shells that easily break. That's why it is easy to shell them and practically the reason why most people buy them whole.

Pecan nuts are a good source of carbohydrates and protein. Fat contained in pecan nuts are good polyunsaturated fats that do not contain any sodium or cholesterol. In other words, pecan nuts are high in HDL or high density lipoprotein which drives away the bad cholesterol away from the arteries and brings them back to the liver. Hence, it prevents plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries reducing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

What are Praline Pecans?

Praline pecans are the golden brown candy made from sugar, cream, milk, vanilla extract, butter and of course, pecan nuts. A traditional praline pecan is prepared by combining sugar; brown and white, and milk in a saucepan and brought to boil. Butter, pecan and vanilla are stirred in the mixture. The mixture is then put in an oven of about 235 to 2400F. Allow to let it cool for 5 more minutes. Then, the mixture is beat slowly until thickened where it is now placed in a flat surface until it becomes firm. As easy as that, you now have that mouth watering healthy snack you can munch on anytime.

Praline pecans are a favorite dessert not only during the holidays but all-year through. It's appealing and distinct taste ultimately melts in the mouth. The caramel goodness of this praline pecan can now be enjoyed in all occasions. And you may have a variety of praline pecans, like praline pecan cookies or pies.

Praline pecans are the deliciously flavored Southern delicacy that irresistibly melts in the mouth. Be sure you have this favorite holiday treat during the Christmas season. If you can't make them, order them now, boxed or tinned, at Tanner's Pecan and Candies or else they disappear in a hurry.