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Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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