Chocolate Pecan Pralines

Ingredients 

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar; packed
• 1/2 cup light cream or half and half
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 ounces baking chocolate; (2 squares)
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 cup pecans; coarsely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Method

Combine the sugars, cream, and salt in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, to 228°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from the heat and add the baking chocolate, broken into small pieces, butter, and pecans. Return to the heat, stirring constantly, and cook to the soft ball stage (234°F). Remove from the heat, add the vanilla, then cool the mixture for 5 minutes. Beat for 10 to 15 seconds until the mixture slightly thickens. Quickly drop candy, by large spoonfuls onto greased plates or waxed paper. If the mixture becomes to thick to drop, stir in a tablespoonful of hot water. Makes about 2 dozen pieces

Submitted by: J. Kerty