These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are rich, creamy, and packed with the warm, nutty flavor of roasted pecans. With a smooth vanilla-infused sugar base that sets into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these pralines are a sweet treat perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or anytime you’re craving something a little fancy but totally homemade.
A Southern classic with a twist—these are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥄 Creamy & Sweet: The combination of evaporated milk, butter, and vanilla chips gives a smooth, luxurious texture.
- 🌰 Pecan Perfection: Chopped pecans add crunch and deep nutty flavor in every bite.
- 🍬 Easy Candy-Making: No candy thermometer needed—just simple stovetop cooking.
- 🎁 Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully wrapped in cellophane, they make ideal holiday treats or hostess gifts.
Ingredients (Makes about 2 dozen candies):
For the Candy Base:
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 7 oz (about ¾ cup) evaporated milk
- ¼ cup (½ stick) butter , cubed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz marshmallow creme (about 1 cup)
Add-Ins:
- 1 package (11 oz) white chocolate chips or vanilla chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
- 2 cups chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor if desired)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Line two cookie sheets or large countertops with waxed paper or parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan , combine:
- Sugar
- Evaporated milk
- Butter
Cook over medium-low heat , stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and continue boiling gently for 8 minutes , still stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Marshmallow Creme
Remove from heat and stir in:
- White or vanilla chips
- Marshmallow creme
Stir until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Then mix in:
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped pecans
Make sure everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Let Cool Slightly
Let the mixture sit for 2–3 minutes to cool slightly and thicken.
If the mixture becomes too firm to scoop, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of evaporated milk to loosen it up.
Step 5: Drop the Pralines
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions onto the prepared waxed paper.
Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature—this usually takes 30–45 minutes .
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Once set, store the pralines in an airtight container , layering each batch between sheets of waxed paper to prevent sticking.
Enjoy as a snack, dessert, or share them with friends and family!
Tips for Success:
- 🔪 Don’t Skip Stirring: Constant stirring prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- 🧈 Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps create a smoother blend when mixing in the final ingredients.
- 🌰 Toast the Pecans: Adds depth of flavor—do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
- 📦 Make Ahead Option: These keep well for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.
- 🧂 No Thermometer Needed: As long as you cook for the full 8 minutes and stir constantly, you’ll get great results.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as part of a holiday sweets tray or dessert buffet.
- Wrap individually for party favors or teacher gifts.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for the perfect afternoon treat.
Nutritional Information (per praline, approx. 24 servings):
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~9g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~20g
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines bring together all the best elements of Southern confections—sweet, nutty, and just the right amount of creamy. Whether you’re making them for yourself, gifting them, or bringing them to a gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
So go ahead and whip up a batch—you deserve that first melt-in-your-mouth bite!
