Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness of these creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Vanilla Pecan Pralines. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a decadent treat, these pralines combine the buttery richness of pecans with a luscious vanilla and marshmallow flavor. Quick to make and utterly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Combines rich flavors of pecans, vanilla, and marshmallow for a decadent treat.
• Perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Requires just one pot and minimal cleanup.
• A crowd-pleaser that’s both classic and timeless.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 11 oz package vanilla or white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 4 oz marshmallow creme
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Directions

1. Lay two sheets of waxed paper on cookie sheets or a clean countertop.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low boil and continue cooking for 8 minutes, stirring often.
3. Add the vanilla chips and marshmallow creme to the saucepan. Stir until the chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until evenly incorporated.
5. Let the mixture cool slightly for 2–3 minutes until it thickens but is still creamy. If it becomes too firm, stir in a teaspoon or two of evaporated milk to loosen it.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared waxed paper. Let them cool completely until set.
7. Store pralines in an airtight container, layering them with waxed paper to prevent sticking.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Makes approximately 24 pralines

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or milk chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
• Spiced Pralines: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top before the pralines set to enhance the flavors.
• Nut Substitutions: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty twist.
• Alcohol-Infused: Add a splash of bourbon or rum for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Layer them with waxed paper to avoid sticking.
• Reheating: Pralines don’t require reheating but can be softened slightly in a microwave for 5 seconds if needed. Avoid overheating as they can become overly soft or melt.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

No, sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter than evaporated milk and would alter the texture and flavor of the pralines.

2. How do I know when the mixture is ready to be dropped onto the wax paper?

The mixture should thicken slightly but remain creamy. If it firms up too much in the saucepan, stir in a small amount of evaporated milk.

3. Can I make these pralines dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and a dairy-free white chocolate alternative, along with a non-dairy milk substitute like coconut evaporated milk.

4. Can I freeze pralines?

Yes, pralines can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

5. Why did my pralines turn out grainy?

Grainy texture can occur if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved during cooking. Ensure constant stirring and maintain the correct heat level.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger saucepan to prevent overflow. Be mindful of the cooking times, as larger batches may require slight adjustments.

7. Can I add other mix-ins to the recipe?

Absolutely! Dried fruits, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips can be added for extra flavor.

8. Are pralines gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the vanilla chips and marshmallow creme are certified gluten-free.

9. What’s the best way to clean the saucepan afterward?

Soak the pan in hot, soapy water for 15 minutes to loosen any sticky residue before washing.

10. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of white?

Yes, but the flavor will be richer and less traditional for pralines. Adjust according to your preference.

Conclusion

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a delightful combination of creamy sweetness and nutty goodness. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these pralines are a timeless treat that’s sure to impress. Try them for your next holiday gathering, or whip up a batch to enjoy at home!

Vanilla Pecan Pralines

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 pralines
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy sweetness of Vanilla Pecan Pralines, a delightful homemade candy combining crunchy pecans, silky marshmallow creme, and decadent vanilla flavors. Perfect for pecan lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, these pralines make an easy, irresistible treat.

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Ingredients

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Instructions

• Prepare the workspace: Lay two long sheets of waxed paper on cookie sheets or a flat surface.
• Cook the base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, milk, and butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce to a low boil and stir for 8 minutes.
• Melt and mix: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla chips and marshmallow creme until melted. Add vanilla extract and chopped pecans, mixing until well combined.
• Cool slightly: Allow the mixture to cool for 2–3 minutes until thick but still creamy. If it becomes too firm, stir in a couple of teaspoons of evaporated milk.
• Shape the pralines: Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the waxed paper and let cool until set.
• Store: Once set, layer the pralines between sheets of waxed paper in an airtight container.

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Notes

• For the best flavor, use high-quality vanilla chips and fresh pecans.
• If your mixture cools too quickly, gently reheat to regain creaminess.
• These pralines make a perfect holiday gift or party treat!