Pecan Praline Topping

From EatingWell: November 1997, The Essential EatingWell Cookbook (2004) — Subscribe Now!

A sprinkling of this nutty topping brings a vanilla cheesecake to life. It is also delicious on reduced-fat ice cream or frozen yogurt.

1 cup

Active Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes (including cooling time)

Nutrition Profile

Ingredients

1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans

Preparation

Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Combine sugar and water in a small heavy saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, without stirring, until syrup turns medium amber, 3 to 5 minutes. Immediately remove from heat and stir in pecans. Pour onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading in a thin layer. Let stand until praline is cool and brittle.
Slide a metal spatula under the praline to loosen it; crack into small pieces. Place in a food processor and pulse until coarsely crushed or ground.

Tips & Notes

Make Ahead Tip: Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Per tablespoon: 37 calories; 1 g fat (0 g sat, 1 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 7 g carbohydrates; 0 g protein; 0 g fiber; 0 mg sodium; 8 mg potassium.

1/2 Carbohydrate Serving

Exchanges: 1/2 other carbohydrate