Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines are exactly what you need! This recipe has been passed down through my family, and every time I make them, I’m reminded of cozy gatherings and happy moments shared around the table. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious or for family gatherings where everyone will want to indulge in their rich, creamy goodness.

The beauty of these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is not just in their taste but also in their simplicity. You can whip them up quickly, making them an easy go-to dessert that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a potluck with friends, or just a little treat for yourself, these pralines will surely become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can dive right into creating these delightful treats.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla and pecans creates a rich and creamy flavor that everyone adores.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen with this recipe, making it a fun family activity!
• Make-Ahead Option: These pralines store well, so you can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy them later.
• Versatile Treat: They’re great for any occasion—be it festive holidays or simple afternoon snacks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Each ingredient plays an important role in achieving that dreamy texture and flavor we all crave.

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or pantry staples on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Try mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
• Nutty Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for something different.
• Chocolate Delight: Fold in some dark chocolate chips along with the vanilla chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness!
• Dried Fruits: Add cranberries or raisins to the mixture for a fruity flavor boost.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by combining sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Using a heavy pan ensures even heat distribution, preventing your sugar from burning as you cook.

Step 2: Heat Until Boiling

Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it comes to a boil, this step is crucial as it sets the foundation for your pralines.

Step 3: Reach the Perfect Temperature

Continue boiling without stirring until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This temperature is known as the firm-ball stage; getting this right ensures that your pralines will have that perfect chewy texture!

Step 4: Stir in Chocolate Chips

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt and blend into a smooth mixture. The chocolate adds richness that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Step 5: Mix in Marshmallows and Vanilla

Now it’s time to fold in the vegan marshmallows creme and vanilla extract. This step adds creaminess that makes these pralines truly irresistible!

Step 6: Add Pecans

Once everything is well combined, add those lovely chopped pecans and stir carefully to coat them evenly. The pecans give texture and crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth base.

Step 7: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This method ensures they hold their shape as they cool.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Finally, let your pralines cool completely before serving. Patience pays off here; once they’re cooled down, you’ll be rewarded with delightful bites of pure bliss!

Enjoy making these Vanilla Pecan Pralines—they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making these Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps distribute the heat evenly, preventing the sugar from burning and ensuring a smooth texture in your pralines.

• Keep a close eye on the temperature: Using a candy thermometer is crucial. The precise temperature (245°F / 118°C) ensures that your pralines have the right firmness and texture.

• Stir constantly when needed: Stirring while the mixture is heating will help dissolve the sugar completely. Once it reaches boiling, avoid stirring to achieve the perfect consistency.

• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your pralines to cool fully helps them set properly, making them easier to handle and enhancing their flavor.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different extracts or spices, like almond extract or cinnamon, to create variations of these delicious pralines that suit your taste.

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

These rich and creamy Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not only delightful treats but also visually appealing. Here are some fun ideas for presenting them:

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture and added nutty flavor.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the pralines and adds an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the pralines, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve your pralines alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that will delight your taste buds.
• Coffee or tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage—coffee or herbal tea complements the sweet flavors perfectly while providing a cozy atmosphere.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a vegan-friendly creamy element that pairs beautifully with the pralines’ sweetness.

Enjoy making and sharing these irresistible Vanilla Pecan Pralines with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time for holidays, gatherings, or just to have a delightful treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pralines in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• To keep them from sticking together, you can layer parchment paper between the pralines.

Freezing

• Place the cooled pralines in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• If you prefer them warm, simply place the pralines in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Be cautious not to overheat; you want them just warm enough to enjoy without melting.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans for Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Absolutely! While pecans give a rich flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if desired. Just chop them up and follow the recipe as directed.

How do I know when my Vanilla Pecan Pralines are done cooking?

You’ll know they’re ready when the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This is known as the firm-ball stage and ensures your pralines have the right texture.

Can I make Vanilla Pecan Pralines without vegan marshmallow creme?

Yes! If you don’t have vegan marshmallow creme, you can replace it with a similar amount of corn syrup or agave syrup. This will help achieve that creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and sweetness to your kitchen! The combination of rich vanilla and crunchy pecans makes these Vanilla Pecan Pralines truly special. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Enjoy creating these delightful treats!