Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that will delight your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not just any dessert; they’re rich, creamy, and packed with the warm flavors of vanilla and crunchy pecans. I remember making these delightful bites during cozy family gatherings, and they always disappear in a flash! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, this recipe is perfect for sharing joy through food.

What makes these pralines extra special is their simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly delicious that everyone will love. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these scrumptious treats ready to go!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the sweet crunch of pecans paired with creamy vanilla.
• Make ahead: Perfect for parties or holiday gifts; these pralines store well and taste great even after a few days.
• Decadent flavor: The combination of rich vanilla chocolate and buttery pecans makes each bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 things about Vanilla Pecan Pralines is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist on the classic flavor.
• Change up the nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try using walnuts or almonds instead for a different texture.
• Include dried fruit: Add in some chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a touch of tartness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Go dark chocolate: For those who prefer a richer taste, swap out vanilla chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by combining sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This step is important because using a heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly, preventing any burning as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. This stage ensures that all ingredients meld together beautifully before reaching that perfect candy consistency.

Step 3: Boil Until Firm-Ball Stage

Continue to boil without stirring until your mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This firm-ball stage is crucial because it creates that delightful chewy texture we love in pralines!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until melted and smooth. This step adds richness to your pralines; it’s where all that creamy goodness comes from!

Step 5: Mix in Marshmallow Creme

Next, stir in the vegan marshmallows creme and vanilla extract until everything is combined nicely. This ingredient not only enhances sweetness but also adds an extra layer of creaminess.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Now it’s time to add those delicious chopped pecans! Stir gently to coat them evenly with that luscious mixture. This is what gives our pralines their signature crunch!

Step 7: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop your mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect; each unique shape adds character!

Step 8: Cool Completely

Let them cool completely before serving. The waiting might be tough because they smell amazing, but letting them set ensures they hold their shape perfectly when you take that first bite.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with loved ones or keeping them all to yourself (I won’t tell!).

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be a delightful experience, especially when you keep these helpful tips in mind!

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

• Invest in a good candy thermometer: Achieving the right temperature is crucial for the perfect texture. A reliable thermometer takes the guesswork out of the process.

• Stir constantly during cooking: Keeping the mixture moving helps dissolve the sugar completely and prevents any sticky spots that can lead to uneven cooking.

• Let them cool fully on the baking sheet: Patience is key! Allowing pralines to cool completely before removing them ensures they set correctly and maintain their shape.

• Experiment with flavors: While vanilla is delicious, feel free to add different extracts or spices to customize your pralines to suit your taste preferences!

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Presenting your Vanilla Pecan Pralines beautifully can make them even more enticing! Here are some ideas for serving them up.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of each praline for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of dairy-free chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pralines.
• Coconut whipped cream: This creamy alternative provides a light, airy accompaniment that complements the nutty flavors perfectly.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Serving pralines alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
• Vanilla ice cream (dairy-free): For an indulgent treat, serve these pralines over a scoop of your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your delicious Vanilla Pecan Pralines! Enjoy every sweet moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making it an excellent treat to have on hand for gatherings or a sweet snack during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pralines to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for better freshness.

Freezing

• Place the cooled pralines in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen pralines into a freezer-safe container or bag, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• If desired, allow the frozen pralines to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
• For a warm treat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts (10-15 seconds), checking frequently until just warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Vanilla Pecan Pralines:

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

Absolutely! While pecans give these pralines their signature flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly!

How long do Vanilla Pecan Pralines last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vanilla Pecan Pralines can last up to one week at room temperature or three months if frozen. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor!

Can I make Vanilla Pecan Pralines without vegan marshmallow creme?

Yes, you can omit the vegan marshmallow creme if you prefer. The pralines may not be as rich and creamy, but they will still be deliciously sweet and nutty!

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

The best way is to add them directly into the hot mixture after removing it from heat. Stir continuously until melted and smooth for perfect consistency!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines as much as I do! They are not just a treat; they embody warmth and comfort that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because, these pralines are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!