Cheater Pralines, aka Candied Pecans

Last week, Elizabeth had a little challenge with a homework writing assignment.  She was getting frustrated about not creating the “right” or “perfect” sentence.  At bedtime we reflected on the episode with discussions about “doing your best,” “learning from your mistakes,” and “we don’t expect perfect.”  Our little philosopher replied “You cannot change what has happened in the past” – and I am expecting her to say something about changing the future – instead she continued with “unless it is written in pencil.”   Well, ok then....

To commemorate Cinco de Mayo, I decided to make pralines.  In doing my research, most of the recipes were marked as “difficult.”  Who do they think has the time or patience for difficult?  Instead, try these cheater pralines.  All the flavor and fiesta; no candy thermometers or perfect humidity required.  These would probably also be really good in a salad or on top of ice cream!

For other festive Mexican inspired recipes, try these or search labels for "Mexican":

·         Guacamole

·         Shrimp Ceviche Cocktail

·         Carne Asada

·         Chicken Enchiladas



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Feliz cumpleaños Catherine!

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Cheater Pralines

Ingredients:

1.      2 cups pecan halves

2.      1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

3.      4 Tbsp heavy cream

4.      1 tsp vanilla

5.      Cinnamon

6.      Cooking spray like Pam

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a medium bowl combine ingredients #1-4, stir, sprinkle with cinnamon, and stir again. Spread into a square baking pan, sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until coating is dry, and slightly crystallized, stirring once. Remove from oven to cool and stir once more. If not serving immediately, store in an airtight container.