- Salt (To Enhance Flavor of Pecans and Overall Candy)
- Buttermilk Powder (Key Ingredient to Achieve the Right Texture)
- Vanilla Extract (Optional but Recommended for Additional Flavor Depth)
- Vegetable Oil (For Coating Molds or Horns)
- Optional Toppings: Chocolate Chips, Crushed Pecans, or Coarse Sugar
Keywords:
- Buttermilk Pralines
- Pecan Candies
- Cook Em Horns
- Candy Making Ingredients
- Butterscotch Syrup
- Powdered Sugar
- Salt
- Buttermilk Powder
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Steps
### Buttermilk Pecan Praline Cook Em Horns Candies Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- **1 cup granulated sugar**
- **¼ cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)**
- **2 tablespoons unsalted butter**
- **⅓ cup buttermilk, room temperature**
- **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
- **½ cup chopped pecans (ensure they are dry and not oily)**
- **Powdered sugar for dusting**
#### Equipment:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Whisk or spatula
- 9-inch round cookie sheet lined with parchment paper
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare Ingredients:**
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) for keeping the pecans warm.
- Chop the pecans into small pieces and set aside.
2. **Combine Sugar and Syrup:**
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine one cup of granulated sugar with light corn syrup (or golden syrup). Stir to ensure they are well combined.
3. **Add Butter and Buttermilk:**
- Add the unsalted butter and buttermilk to the mixture in the saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Use a whisk or spatula to stir occasionally, ensuring everything is well mixed.
4. **Attach Candy Thermometer:**
- Once boiling, attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. The goal is to reach a temperature between 295°F and 300°F (146°C to 149°C) for hard crack stage.
- Reduce heat slightly if necessary to maintain this temperature.
5. **Cook Until Desired Temperature:**
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches the desired temperature range. Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.
6. **Add Pecans and Vanilla Extract:**
- Once the sugar mixture has reached the right temperature, remove from heat.
- Add vanilla extract and chopped pecans into the mixture. Stir quickly but gently to avoid breaking the praline structure.
7. **Pour onto Prepared Cookie Sheet:**
- Quickly pour the pecan mixture onto a prepared 9-inch round cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Use a spatula or spoon to spread the mixture evenly and make it thin, forming a large circle.
8. **Cool and Cut into Pieces:**
- Allow the praline mixture to cool for about 10-15 minutes until it firms up enough to handle but remains soft enough to cut.
- Using a sharp knife or candy cutter, carefully cut into small diamond-shaped pieces (horns).
9. **Bake to Set:**
- Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven set at 200°F (93°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
- This helps ensure the pralines are fully set and crisp on the outside.
10. **Cool Completely and Dust with Powdered Sugar:**
- Once cooled, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar (optional but enhances presentation).
### Tips for Success:
- Ensure that your cooking equipment is clean and dry.
- Always use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Do not stir excessively once it reaches the hard crack stage.
Enjoy these delicious homemade buttermilk pecan praline cook em horns candies, perfect for any sweet treat or gift-giving occasion. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a delightful addition to your holiday table or as a thoughtful gift.