Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines rich, creamy textures with the nutty goodness of pecans, you’ve come to the right place! These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not only easy to whip up but also make for a fantastic dessert to share with friends and family. I love making these sweets for gatherings, especially during the holidays or cozy family nights. The aroma of vanilla and toasted pecans wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible!

These pralines are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a sweet surprise for your loved ones, they are sure to impress. Plus, they’re so simple that even beginner bakers can enjoy making them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious pralines ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet combination of vanilla and pecan flavors.
• Make-Ahead Treat: These pralines store well, making them an ideal option for preparing ahead of time.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with different nuts or flavorings if you wish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that they’re all simple and wholesome, making your shopping list easy to manage. Here’s what you’ll need to create these tasty Vanilla Pecan Pralines:

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 these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is how flexible the recipe can be! If you want to switch things up a bit or cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Change the Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
• Add Some Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm twist to your pralines.
• Go Darker: Swap out vanilla chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Mix in Extras: Throw in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Sugar, Milk, and Butter

Start by combining sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This step is crucial as it forms the base of our praline mixture. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and everything comes together in a lovely smooth blend.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Once dissolved, continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This temperature is important because it signifies that we’re at the firm-ball stage, which ensures our pralines will set perfectly.

Step 3: Melt in Chocolate Chips

Remove your saucepan from heat and stir in those luscious vanilla chocolate chips. Keep stirring until they melt into the mixture smoothly. This step adds that dreamy creaminess we all love in pralines!

Step 4: Add Marshmallow Creme and Vanilla Extract

Next, mix in the vegan marshmallows crème and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This addition gives our pralines that fluffy texture while enhancing their delicious flavor.

Step 5: Stir in Pecans

Now it’s time to add those beautiful chopped pecans! Stir them into your mixture until they’re evenly coated with that rich gooey goodness.

Step 6: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Don’t worry about perfection; each one will have its own unique charm!

Step 7: Let Cool Completely

Finally, allow your pralines to cool completely before serving. This waiting period helps them set properly so they’ll have that delightful bite when you finally dig in!

Enjoy every moment of making these Vanilla Pecan Pralines; I promise they will become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making the perfect Vanilla Pecan Pralines is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Use a candy thermometer: This tool is essential for achieving the right consistency. Cooking the mixture to 245°F (118°C) ensures that your pralines set perfectly without becoming too hard or too soft.

• Stir constantly while boiling: While you should avoid stirring once the mixture reaches a boil, constant stirring during the initial heating helps dissolve the sugar evenly, preventing any graininess in your final product.

• Cool completely before serving: Allowing your pralines to cool completely on the baking sheet will help them firm up nicely. This way, they’ll hold their shape when you serve them!

• Store properly: To keep your pralines fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to stack them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of sea salt or substitute other nuts for pecans! This can enhance the flavor profile and make each batch uniquely delicious.

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Presenting your Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be as fun as making them! Here are some creative ways to showcase these delightful treats.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top of each praline for an extra nutty crunch and visual appeal.

• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted vanilla chocolate over the cooled pralines adds elegance and enhances their sweet flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich sweetness of the pralines, creating a decadent dessert experience.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the pralines. Consider using strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for vibrant colors and flavors.

• Coffee or tea: Serving these pralines alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a delightful afternoon treat. The warmth of the drink complements the rich flavors wonderfully.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Vanilla Pecan Pralines will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table. Enjoy sharing this sweet treat with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes. Making them ahead of time not only saves you effort on busy days but also ensures you have a sweet snack ready to share with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can last for up to one week, maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.
• Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Place pralines in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these pralines, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If desired, you can slightly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt them.

FAQs

Have questions about making your own Vanilla Pecan Pralines? You’re in the right place! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other nuts in Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different twist. Just ensure that any nuts used are chopped similarly for even distribution.

How do I store leftover Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Store your leftover Vanilla Pecan Pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them following our guidelines above!

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

When adding chocolate chips to your mixture, make sure to remove it from heat first. Stir gently until fully melted and smooth; this prevents the chocolate from seizing up.

Can I make Vanilla Pecan Pralines vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly with the use of vegan marshmallow creme and can be enjoyed by everyone without any animal products.

What is the texture like for Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Vanilla Pecan Pralines have a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth while offering delightful crunchiness from the pecans. They are truly irresistible!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Vanilla Pecan Pralines brings joy and sweetness into your kitchen! These delightful treats capture irresistible flavors while being easy enough for any home cook to master. Enjoy making them and sharing with your loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade confectionery. Happy cooking!