Introduction

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a deliciously creamy and nutty treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These rich candies combine the smoothness of vanilla chocolate with the crunch of pecans for an irresistible snack or gift.

The image shows close-up small round treats with two layers, placed close to each other. The bottom layer is crumbly and light beige with visible nut pieces. The top layer is a smooth, creamy light caramel color, slightly glossy, and covers the entire treat. The top surface of each treat is decorated with whole and halved pecans, which are a rich brown with a shiny texture. The treats sit on a white plate with a gold detailed edge, all set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2.5 cups granulated sugar
7 oz evaporated milk
0.25 cup butter, cubed
11 oz vanilla chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups chopped pecans
4 oz marshmallow creme

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a soft ball stage (235°F or 113°C).
Step 2: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the cubed butter, vanilla chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Add the marshmallow creme and continue stirring until well incorporated and the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Let them cool at room temperature until set.

Tips & Variations

For an extra touch of saltiness, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each praline before they set.
Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
If the mixture hardens too quickly, gently rewarm it over low heat while stirring to soften before shaping.

Storage

Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, refrigeration is recommended to prevent melting. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows several small round treats with two layers: the bottom layer is a firm light brown crust with a slightly rough texture, and the top layer is a smooth, glossy caramel-colored cream that covers the whole surface. Each treat has several whole and halved pecan nuts embedded in the top creamy layer, giving a rich, textured look. The treats are placed closely on a shiny surface with a decorative vintage pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cream instead of evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk helps achieve the correct consistency and sweetness. Using fresh cream may alter the texture and make the pralines too soft or sticky.

Why are my pralines grainy after cooling?

Graininess usually happens if the sugar crystallizes during cooking or cooling. Make sure to stir constantly while cooking and avoid stirring once the mixture is out of heat. Using a candy thermometer helps prevent overheating.

Creamy Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 106 reviews

This delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe combines the rich flavors of vanilla chocolate, buttery pecans, and smooth marshmallow creme to create a creamy, sweet treat. Perfect as a homemade candy gift or a special dessert, these pralines offer a crunchy texture with a melt-in-your-mouth finish.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 pralines 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2.5 cups granulated sugar

Dairy & Flavorings

7 oz evaporated milk
0.25 cup butter (cubed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 oz marshmallow creme

Chocolate & Nuts

11 oz vanilla chocolate chips
2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients, chop pecans if not pre-chopped, and cube the butter. This preparation helps streamline the cooking process.
Combine Sugar, Milk, and Butter: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stir together the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Continue boiling and stirring the mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage (234-240°F or 112-116°C) on a candy thermometer. This ensures the proper texture for pralines.
Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallow Creme: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips and marshmallow creme. Mix until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in Vanilla Extract and Pecans: Add the vanilla extract and chopped pecans to the mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Cool and Shape Pralines: Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it thickens enough to scoop. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let set at room temperature until firm.

Notes

Use a heavy saucepan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent scorching.
Candy thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy in cooking the sugar mixture.
Pralines should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
If mixture hardens too quickly, warm gently and stir to soften before scooping.
For added flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding.

Keywords: Vanilla Pecan Pralines, pralines recipe, homemade pralines, pecan candy, chocolate pralines, marshmallow creme pralines