French Almond Pralines

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) whole almonds 2 cups (240g) whole almonds
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 14g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   Spread the almonds evenly on the prepared baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
4. 4.
   Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches a golden caramel color.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
6. 6.
   Add the toasted almonds to the caramel mixture and stir until all the almonds are evenly coated.
7. 7.
   Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the almond mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading.
8. 8.
   Let the pralines cool and harden completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to toast the almonds before adding them to the caramel mixture. This step enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the pralines.

Tips & Tricks

• Work quickly when adding the almonds to the caramel mixture, as it hardens rapidly.
• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the desired temperature for optimal texture.
• Experiment with different nuts, such as hazelnuts or pecans, for variations in flavor.

Serving advice

Serve French Almond Pralines in a decorative box or jar for an elegant presentation. They make for a delightful treat after a meal or as a sweet indulgence with a cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pralines on a serving platter, allowing their golden-brown color to shine. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate over the pralines for an extra touch of elegance.