Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are my go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight craving or a family gathering, these delightful bites always bring smiles and satisfaction. The rich flavor of vanilla combined with the crunch of pecans creates an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these pralines in no time. Plus, they make the perfect homemade gift or dessert to share—trust me, your friends will be begging you for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have these delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these treats! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Delight: These pralines store beautifully. Make them ahead of time and surprise your loved ones whenever you want!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of vanilla chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a taste sensation that’s simply divine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with your pralines. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist on the classic flavor.
• Nut Swap: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try using walnuts or almonds instead for a different texture and taste.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence.
• Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the mix for a tropical flair!

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by combining the sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This mixture is the base of your pralines, so it’s important to use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook Until Boiling

Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture starts to boil. This step is crucial because it helps ensure that your pralines will have that perfect creamy texture.

Step 3: Reach the Right Temperature

Once boiling, let it continue without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer (this is known as the firm-ball stage). Keeping an eye on the temperature is key for achieving that ideal consistency!

Step 4: Melt in Chocolate

Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt into a smooth mixture. The chocolate adds richness and depth to your pralines.

Step 5: Mix in Marshmallow Creme and Vanilla

Next, stir in the vegan marshmallows creme along with the vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This adds creaminess and enhances that lovely vanilla flavor we all adore.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Add your chopped pecans into the mix now. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with that luscious mixture.

Step 7: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop mounds of this gooey goodness onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between each mound so they don’t stick together as they cool.

Step 8: Let Cool Completely

Finally, allow your pralines to cool completely before serving them up. This step is hard but oh-so-worth-it when you finally take that first bite!

Now you’re ready to share these delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines with your friends and family—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making pralines can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the perfect batch every time!

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This ensures even heat distribution, preventing the sugar from burning and allowing for a smooth texture.

• Monitor the temperature closely: Using a candy thermometer is crucial for reaching the firm-ball stage. If you miss this mark, your pralines may end up too soft or hard.

• Stir constantly while boiling: This helps dissolve the sugar completely and prevents crystallization, resulting in creamy and luscious pralines.

• Cool on parchment paper: Dropping the mixture onto parchment makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking, ensuring your candies retain their beautiful shape.

• Be patient as they cool: Allowing your pralines to set completely before serving is key to achieving the ideal texture. Rushing this step can lead to gooey treats instead of firm bites.

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Present them beautifully for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon treat with friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some extra chopped pecans on top before they set adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of dairy-free chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the cooled pralines can give them an elegant touch and make them even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant fresh fruit salad complements the sweetness of pralines with its refreshing tartness, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Dairy-free ice cream: Pairing these pralines with a scoop of creamy dairy-free ice cream creates a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Serving these pralines alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a cozy atmosphere that enhances their rich flavors.
• Cheese platter: A selection of non-dairy cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the pralines, making for an exciting charcuterie-inspired dessert spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vanilla Pecan Pralines will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy crafting this delicious treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them an excellent sweet treat to have on hand for gatherings or just to satisfy your cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for about a week.
• If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent stickiness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the pralines.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat pralines; they are delicious served at room temperature.
• If desired, let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving after refrigeration or freezing to soften slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vanilla Pecan Pralines that might help you along the way!

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them finely and follow the recipe as usual.

How do I ensure my Vanilla Pecan Pralines turn out perfectly?

The key is to closely monitor the cooking temperature. Make sure the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) for that perfect firm-ball stage. Use a reliable candy thermometer for best results!

Can I make Vanilla Pecan Pralines vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly thanks to the use of vegan marshmallows creme and no animal-derived gelatin. Enjoy guilt-free!

What is the best way to serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

These pralines are delightful on their own but can also be served with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines as much as I do! They bring a wonderful blend of rich flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing with friends, these treats are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!