introduction
My Creamy Pecan Pralines are a soft, sweet candy with a touch of New Orleans. They are low carb and taste rich. This recipe makes small pieces that are about 1 carb each. For a different dessert idea, see this list of vegan Valentine’s Day recipes to try.
why make this recipe
You will love these if you want a simple keto candy. They use few ingredients. They take little time. They make a good treat for guests or for a snack at home. If you want more dessert ideas for a special night, check this best Valentine’s Day dessert recipes to impress your sweetheart.
how to make My Creamy Pecan Pralines
Make them on the stove. Stir until the mix thickens. Drop spoonfuls on a tray. Let them cool and set. Use a candy thermometer if you have one. Work steadily but simply.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup powdered erythritol or powdered sugar substitute
- 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (or use more erythritol)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions :
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Toast pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes. Stir and watch so they do not burn. Remove and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add butter, heavy cream, powdered erythritol, and brown sugar substitute.
- Stir on medium heat until the butter melts and the sweetener dissolves.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often. Mixture should thicken.
- Stir in vanilla, salt, and cinnamon if you use it.
- Add pecans and mix to coat them well.
- Use a spoon to drop small mounds onto the prepared sheet. Keep them small for 1 carb each.
- Let the pralines cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until they set.
- Once firm, store or serve.
how to serve My Creamy Pecan Pralines
Serve at room temperature. Place them on a small plate or a candy dish. They go well with black coffee or unsweetened tea. Offer a few pieces per person as a sweet finish after dinner.
how to store My Creamy Pecan Pralines
Store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 3 weeks. If you refrigerate, let them sit at room temp 10–15 minutes before serving so they soften.
tips to make My Creamy Pecan Pralines
- Use powdered erythritol for a smooth texture.
- Stir constantly when the mixture thickens to avoid burning.
- Drop mounds with a small cookie scoop for even sizes.
- If pralines stick, chill the tray for a few minutes then try again.
- Measure ingredients first. That makes cooking easier.
variation (if any)
- Add 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate for a chocolate-pecan version.
- Mix in 1/4 teaspoon sea salt on top for salted pralines.
- Use pecan pieces instead of halves for smaller candies.
FAQs
Q: Are these truly low carb?
A: Yes. With small pieces and low-carb sweetener, each piece is about 1 carb. Check your sweetener label to be sure.
Q: Can I use another nut?
A: Yes. Walnuts or almonds work well but the flavor will change.
Q: Can I skip the heavy cream?
A: Heavy cream gives the creamy texture. You can try coconut cream, but the taste will differ.
Q: How do I know when the candy is ready on the stove?
A: The mix will thicken and coat the spoon. It will not be watery. Use a candy thermometer if you want 235–240°F for soft-ball stage.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
For a similar low-carb take on pecan pralines, you can see this detailed Keto Pecan Pralines Recipe – Low Carb, EASY | Joy Filled Eats. If you like nutty cookies too, this recipe for salted peanut butter cookies makes a nice comparison.
Print
My Creamy Pecan Pralines
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto, Low Carb
Description
A soft, sweet candy reminiscent of New Orleans, these creamy pecan pralines are low-carb and rich in flavor, making them a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup powdered erythritol or powdered sugar substitute
- 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (or use more erythritol)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Toast pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes. Stir and watch so they do not burn. Remove and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add butter, heavy cream, powdered erythritol, and brown sugar substitute.
- Stir on medium heat until the butter melts and the sweetener dissolves.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often. Mixture should thicken.
- Stir in vanilla, salt, and cinnamon if you use it.
- Add pecans and mix to coat them well.
- Use a spoon to drop small mounds onto the prepared sheet. Keep them small for 1 carb each.
- Let the pralines cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until they set.
- Once firm, store or serve.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer storage. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving if refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg