A simple way to make pralines

Elizabeth Jancey in Alaska sent the easy microwave recipe for pecan pralines.

She says the pralines are then used to make praline powder, a pantry essential in her hometown of Houma, La.

“You simply pulverize the pralines to get powder, which I store in a jar in the fridge,” she says.

“I like it coarse, but you can decide how chunky you like it when you put it in the food processor.”

Microwave pecan pralines

2 cups sugar

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter

21/2 cups broken pecans

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla

In a deep bowl or microwave-safe 4-quart casserole, combine the sugar, buttermilk and salt. Microwave on 70 percent power for about 8 minutes, stirring several times and scraping the sides of the bowl, until the sugar begins to caramelize.

Stir in the butter and pecans, and continue cooking at 70 percent powder about 8 more minutes, until candy reaches the soft-ball stage (234 degrees). Add the baking soda (the mixture will foam) and cook on high for 1 minute, or until praline is the color you prefer.

Remove from microwave, stir in vanilla and cool slightly. Beat until creamy and slightly thickened. Quickly drop by tablespoonfuls onto wax paper that has been placed over a wet towel. Let pralines set until dry and firm before removing from paper.

Makes about 60.

To make powder: When completely cool, place in blender or food processor and pulse to desired consistency.