Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines are just the thing! Rich, creamy, and bursting with delightful vanilla and pecan flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these pralines are sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create something truly scrumptious. Plus, they make great gifts! Imagine wrapping these up in a lovely box and sharing them with friends—what a thoughtful gesture!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delectable treats on your table.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet combination of vanilla and pecans.
• Make ahead convenience: These pralines store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday gifting.
• Decadent flavor: The rich blend of chocolate and nuts creates an irresistible treat that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Vanilla Pecan Pralines is part of the fun! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a deliciously rich treat that everyone will love.

Basic Ingredients

• 2.5 cups granulated sugar
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 0.25 cup butter (cubed)

For the Praline Flavor

• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 4 oz vegan marshmallows creme
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to customize your pralines:

• Add some spice: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm kick.
• Nut substitution: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try using walnuts or almonds instead!
• Chocolate twist: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top for an extra layer of decadence.
• Dried fruit addition: Toss in some chopped dried cherries or cranberries for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. This step is crucial because it forms the base of your pralines. Cooking over medium heat allows the sugar to dissolve completely while blending with the creamy milk and buttery goodness.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, let it simmer without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This firm-ball stage is what gives your pralines that perfect chewy texture!

Step 3: Add Chocolate Goodness

Remove your saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips. The warmth will melt them into the mixture beautifully, creating a smooth and rich consistency that’s just divine.

Step 4: Incorporate Marshmallow Creme

Next, add in the vegan marshmallows creme and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined; this adds an extra layer of creaminess to your pralines that makes them hard to resist.

Step 5: Mix in Pecans

Finally, fold in those lovely chopped pecans! They’ll add both crunch and nutty flavor to your pralines. Make sure every piece gets coated evenly—that’s where all the magic happens!

Step 6: Form Your Pralines

Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This part is fun! Just imagine how delicious each piece will be once cooled.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let your pralines cool completely before serving them up or packaging them as gifts. They will firm up nicely as they cool down!

Enjoy making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines—they’re sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate your treat to perfection!

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan – This helps distribute the heat evenly, preventing the sugar from burning and ensuring a smooth texture.
• Invest in a reliable candy thermometer – This tool is essential for monitoring the temperature accurately, allowing you to reach that perfect firm-ball stage for your pralines.
• Stir constantly during the initial cooking phase – This ensures the sugar dissolves completely without crystallizing, leading to creamy and luscious pralines.
• Let them cool completely before serving – Patience is key! Allowing them to cool fully helps them set properly and maintain their shape for an impressive presentation.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts on top for an extra flavor boost that complements the sweetness beautifully.

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Presenting your Vanilla Pecan Pralines can turn these sweet treats into showstoppers at any gathering! They’re perfect for gifting or as part of a dessert spread.

Garnishes

• Sea Salt Sprinkle – A light dusting of flaky sea salt adds a sophisticated touch and balances out the sweetness.
• Chopped Fresh Mint – Adding fresh mint leaves not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the crunchy pralines, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Coffee or Espresso – A warm beverage like coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the pralines while enhancing their nutty flavor profile.
• Fruit Salad – A vibrant fruit salad brings brightness and freshness, making it an excellent balance against the richness of the pralines.
• Chocolate Dipped Fruit – Strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate add another layer of indulgence to your dessert table while harmonizing with the praline flavors.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines! They are sure to impress everyone around you.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them, so they’re ready to enjoy whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pralines to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to one week.

Freezing

• Individually wrap each praline in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
• Place wrapped pralines in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

• These pralines are best enjoyed at room temperature, so simply let them sit out for a bit if they’ve been refrigerated or frozen.
• If you prefer them warm, microwave for just 5-10 seconds, but be careful not to overheat and alter their texture.

FAQs

If you’re curious about Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’re in the right place! Here are some common questions that might help you.

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

Absolutely! While pecans give these pralines a distinct flavor, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even mixed nuts for a different twist on the recipe.

How long do Vanilla Pecan Pralines last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines will stay fresh for about one week. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months!

What is the best way to melt chocolate chips for Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

For perfectly melted chocolate chips, add them into the warm mixture off the heat and stir until smooth. Avoid using direct heat as it can burn the chocolate.

Are there any substitutes for evaporated milk in Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Yes! You can use coconut milk or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative. Just make sure they are unsweetened for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines! They’re not just a treat; they’re a sweet way to create memories with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. Happy cooking!