Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern treat that melts in your mouth with every bite. These rich, creamy candies combine the delicate flavor of vanilla with the warm, buttery crunch of pecans, creating an irresistible blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for the holiday season, gifting, or indulging in as a sweet treat for yourself, they’re an easy-to-make delight that will quickly become a family favorite.
I remember the first time I tried pralines—my grandmother used to make them during the holidays. Her kitchen smelled like warm vanilla and toasted pecans, and the sweet aroma seemed to wrap itself around you like a cozy blanket. She’d always let me help drop the mixture onto waxed paper, sneaking a taste when she wasn’t looking. Now, every time I make these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, I feel like I’m carrying on a little bit of her love and tradition. Let me show you how you can bring this sweet piece of Southern charm into your home too!
Vanilla Pecan Pralines: A Delicious Treat
Imagine biting into a Vanilla Pecan Praline. The first thing you’ll notice is the smooth, creamy texture that dissolves almost instantly. Then comes the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, adding a buttery nuttiness to balance the sweetness. These pralines have a glossy, light golden appearance, flecked with bits of pecan. They’re indulgent yet surprisingly light, making them perfect for sharing at parties, enjoying as an afternoon treat, or wrapping up as a homemade gift.
Why Our Vanilla Pecan Pralines Are the Best
Our Vanilla Pecan Pralines stand out because of their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. With high-quality ingredients like Ghirardelli vanilla chips and fresh pecans, these pralines deliver gourmet flavor with a homemade touch.
Ingredients Notes For Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Each ingredient in our Vanilla Pecan Pralines plays a key role in creating their signature creamy texture and warm flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (2 ½ cups): Provides the sweetness and structure of the pralines.
- Evaporated Milk (7 oz): Adds creaminess and a rich, caramelized depth to the candy.
- Butter (¼ cup, cubed): Creates a velvety texture while enhancing the overall flavor.
- Vanilla or White Chocolate Chips (1 pkg, 11 oz): These add a luxurious vanilla flavor and contribute to the pralines’ creamy consistency.
- Marshmallow Creme (4 oz): Helps achieve the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the vanilla flavor and ties the ingredients together.
- Chopped Pecans (2 cups): Provides a buttery crunch and classic praline flavor.
Kitchen Tools Needed For Vanilla Pecan Pralines
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Waxed paper
- Cookie sheets or a flat countertop for cooling
How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines come together in just a few simple steps! The result is worth every minute of effort.
- Prepare Your Workspace
Place two long sheets of waxed paper on cookie sheets or your counter to create a cooling area for the pralines. - Cook the Base Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a boil. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a low boil and stir continuously for 8 minutes. Timing is essential here—set a timer! - Melt the Chips and Marshmallow Creme
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla or white chocolate chips and the marshmallow creme. Keep stirring until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. - Add Vanilla and Pecans
Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans, ensuring the pecans are evenly coated in the mixture. - Drop the Pralines
Allow the mixture to cool for 2-3 minutes. Using a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared waxed paper. The mixture should be thick but creamy—if it’s too stiff, add a couple of teaspoons of evaporated milk and mix well. - Cool and Set
Let the pralines cool on the waxed paper until they are firm and set.
How to Store Vanilla Pecan Pralines
To keep your Vanilla Pecan Pralines fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. Layer the pralines between sheets of waxed paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Vanilla Pecan Pralines Variations
- Dark Chocolate Pecan Pralines: Substitute the vanilla chips with dark chocolate chips for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Coconut Pecan Pralines: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Maple Pecan Pralines: Replace the vanilla extract with maple extract to create a warm, earthy variation.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your favorite!
What to Serve With Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Vanilla Pecan Pralines pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot tea. Their sweetness complements the bold flavors of black coffee, while a creamy chai latte brings out the warm vanilla notes. For a holiday party, serve them alongside a sparkling apple cider or mulled wine for a festive touch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes a perfect pairing—place a praline on top for a decadent dessert!
Top Tips for Perfect Vanilla Pecan Pralines
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the mixture from burning.
- Time the Boil: Stir and boil the mixture for exactly 8 minutes to dissolve the sugar completely and achieve the ideal texture.
- Adjust Texture if Needed: If the mixture is too thick, stir in a teaspoon or two of evaporated milk to restore creaminess.
- Work Quickly: Once the pecans are added, the mixture sets quickly, so have your waxed paper ready in advance.
- Store Properly: Layering the pralines with waxed paper keeps them from sticking together.
Helpful Notes
- Always use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- If your mixture begins to stiffen while dropping pralines, warm it slightly on the stove to loosen it.
- Avoid high heat—it can scorch the sugar and ruin the texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor—it makes all the difference in simple recipes like pralines.
- Alton Brown: Use a candy thermometer if you’re unsure about boiling times. The mixture should reach around 234°F for perfect consistency.
- Paula Deen: Toast your pecans before adding them for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use milk instead of evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk is best because it’s thicker and creamier than regular milk, which helps achieve the right consistency.
2. Why are my pralines grainy?
Graininess occurs when sugar crystals form. Stir constantly and ensure the sugar is fully dissolved during the boiling step.
3. Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds work well, but pecans are the traditional choice for pralines.
4. How long do pralines take to set?
They usually set within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the room temperature.
5. Can I make pralines without marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme helps create the soft texture, but you could try substituting it with 4 oz of softened cream cheese for a unique twist.
More Delicious Candy Recipes
Make these Vanilla Pecan Pralines today, and enjoy a little piece of Southern sweetness in every bite!
Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Ingredients
- – 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- – 7 oz evaporated milk
- – 1/4 cup butter cubed
- – 1 package 11 oz vanilla or white chocolate chips (recommend Ghirardelli)
- – 4 oz marshmallow creme
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Place two long sheets of waxed paper either on cookie sheets or your counter.
- Add the sugar, milk, and butter to a heavy-bottomed saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, constantly stirring. Boil, then turn down the heat to a low boil. Boil and stir for 8 minutes.
- Add the vanilla chips and marshmallow creme and stir until chips are completely melted. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and pecans. Stir to coat pecans until everything is evenly combined.
- Let cool for 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be thick but creamy – if not, add a couple more teaspoons of evaporated milk and stir well. Carefully drop by tablespoons onto the waxed paper and let cool until set.
- Store in an airtight container, layering the candy between waxed paper.
Notes
- Boil and stir the entire 8 minutes – time it. It dissolves the sugar and gives the candy a great texture.
- After removing from the stove, add a touch more evaporated milk if needed. The texture should be creamy, but not runny.