Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s sure to brighten your day, let me introduce you to my cherished recipe for Vanilla Pecan Pralines. These little bites of heaven are not just delicious; they’re rich and creamy, with a delightful blend of vanilla and pecan flavors that make them irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dessert or a cozy family gathering, these pralines will be the star of the show!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You can make them in just about 35 minutes, and trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become a favorite in my home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: The total time from start to finish is under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and, of course, indulging in these sweet treats!
• Versatile Gift: Pack them in a cute box, and they make an excellent homemade gift for friends and family.
• Decadent Flavor: With the combination of vanilla chocolate and crunchy pecans, every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Gather these up, and let’s get started on creating those delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines!

For the Pralines

• 2.5 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 0.25 cup butter (cubed)
• 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 4 oz vegan marshmallows creme
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best things about Vanilla Pecan Pralines is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins or flavors. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
• Go Nutty: Swap out half of the pecans for another nut like walnuts or almonds.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over cooled pralines for an extra indulgent touch.
• Dried Fruit Kick: Mix in some chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. This step is crucial as it forms the base of our praline mixture. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely—this ensures we don’t end up with any gritty bits later on.

Step 2: Bring It to a Boil

Once everything is dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Keep an eye on it! You want this mixture to reach 245°F (118°C) on your candy thermometer; this is known as the firm-ball stage. Getting this temperature right is what gives our pralines that perfect chewy texture.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Goodness

When your mixture reaches temperature, remove it from heat and stir in those delicious vanilla chocolate chips. Mixing them in while hot will melt them into a smooth blend that adds richness to our pralines.

Step 4: Incorporate Marshmallow Creme and Pecans

Next, stir in the vegan marshmallows creme and vanilla extract until fully combined. This adds that lovely creaminess we all adore! Then fold in the chopped pecans gently so they are evenly coated with our sweet mixture.

Step 5: Shape Your Pralines

Using rounded tablespoons, drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly shaped—homemade treats have their charm!

Step 6: Cool Down

Let your pralines cool completely before serving. This cooling time allows them to set up nicely so you can enjoy their full flavor when it’s time to indulge!

Now you’re ready to savor each delicious bite of these Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or keeping them all to yourself—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use a candy thermometer: This tool is essential for achieving the perfect consistency. Cooking to 245°F ensures your pralines reach the firm-ball stage, giving them a lovely texture.
• Stir constantly while cooking: Keeping the mixture moving helps prevent burning and ensures even melting of the sugar and butter, leading to smooth pralines.
• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your pralines to cool on the baking sheet lets them set properly, resulting in a satisfying crunch.
• Experiment with nuts: While pecans are traditional, feel free to substitute or mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a unique twist!
• Store in an airtight container: To keep your pralines fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll make great treats for days to come!

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

These delectable Vanilla Pecan Pralines shine on their own but can be even more enjoyable when presented thoughtfully. Here are some fun ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top of the pralines just before they set for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate can add an elegant touch and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Powdered sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar just before serving creates a beautiful contrast and adds a hint of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed fruits like berries, apples, and oranges complements the rich flavors of the pralines perfectly.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the chewy pralines, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances out the sweetness and makes for a cozy accompaniment to your praline treat.
• Cheese platter: Consider adding mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a sophisticated touch that contrasts with the sugary goodness.

Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines! With their rich flavor and delightful texture, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time for gatherings or as a sweet treat throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled pralines in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks.

Freezing

• To freeze, layer pralines between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these pralines; they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If you prefer them slightly warm, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for just a few seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vanilla Pecan Pralines that may help you!

Can I use other nuts in Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Absolutely! While pecans add a beautiful flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

How do I make Vegan Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly due to the use of vegan marshmallow creme and plant-based ingredients. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Vanilla Pecan Pralines guilt-free!

What’s the best way to melt chocolate for Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

For smooth melting, either use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. This ensures your chocolate chips blend perfectly into the mixture.

Can I double this Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and follow the same instructions. Just ensure you have a large enough saucepan!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Their rich, creamy texture combined with the crunch of pecans makes them truly special. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself, these pralines are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!