Chocolate Pralines

YIELDS: 36

COOK TIME: 35 Min

Pralines are a rich, patty-shaped Southern candy made from pecans. And for all you chocoholics out there, these are "to-die for!"

What You'll Need

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) plus 1 teaspoon butter, divided
2 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups pecan halves

What to Do

In a large saucepan that has been coated with 1 teaspoon butter, combine sugar, buttermilk, baking soda, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 20 minutes, until soft ball stage is reached, stirring constantly (see Note).
Remove from heat and add remaining 1/4 cup butter, chocolate chips, and vanilla; continue stirring until melted and smooth. Add pecans and stir until well coated.
Drop by tablespoonfuls about 1-inch apart on wax paper-lined baking sheets. Allow to cool at room temperature until set. Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Notes

To test for soft ball stage: Drop a bit of mixture from a teaspoon into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, that flattens when you remove it from water, it has reached soft ball stage. If not, continue to cook mixture, then test again after a bit.