Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a rich and creamy Southern candy treat with a buttery texture and a delightful crunch from toasted pecans. These sweet nuggets combine the smoothness of vanilla chocolate with the classic praline flavor for a perfect homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups granulated sugar
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 0.25 cup butter, cubed
• 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 4 oz marshmallow creme

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Step 2: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Step 4: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
5. Step 5: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Step 6: Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the pralines cool completely before serving to allow them to set properly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the mixture.
• You can substitute half of the vanilla chocolate chips with milk chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate taste.
• If you don’t have a candy thermometer, test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape.

Storage

Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If your kitchen is warm, keep them in the refrigerator to prevent melting. To enjoy, bring them to room temperature or warm slightly on the counter before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Keep the same quantity and chop them similarly for even distribution.

What if I don’t have marshmallow creme?

If marshmallow creme isn’t available, you can substitute with an equal amount of marshmallow fluff or add a tablespoon of corn syrup to help with the texture and consistency.

Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 135 reviews

Delight in the rich, creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor of Vanilla Pecan Pralines, a classic Southern candy combining buttery caramelized sugar, smooth vanilla chocolate, and crunchy toasted pecans into irresistible bite-sized treats.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30 pralines 1x
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Praline Mixture

• 2.5 cups granulated sugar
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Flavorings & Add-ins

• 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 oz marshmallow creme
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Stir to combine before heating.
2. Dissolve Sugar: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
3. Boil to Temperature: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring, carefully monitoring with a candy thermometer until it reaches 245°F (118°C), the firm ball stage.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until fully melted and incorporated for a rich vanilla flavor.
5. Mix in Marshmallow Creme and Vanilla: Stir in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract until the mixture is evenly combined, giving the pralines their creamy texture.
6. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans to distribute them evenly throughout the candy mixture.
7. Form Pralines: Drop rounded tablespoons of the praline mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
8. Cool and Set: Allow the pralines to cool completely at room temperature until set and firm before serving or storing.

Notes

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching the sugar mixture.
• Stir constantly during sugar dissolution to avoid grainy pralines.
• The firm ball stage at 245°F is critical for proper praline texture.
• Marshmallow creme helps create a creamier, smoother praline instead of a grainy candy.
• Ensure pralines cool completely at room temperature to set properly.
• Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Keywords: vanilla pecan pralines, Southern candy, pecan candy, homemade pralines, caramel candy, vanilla chocolate pralines