A Sweet Delight: Vanilla Pecan Pralines
There’s something magical about the crunch of pecans combined with smooth, creamy vanilla chocolate in these Vanilla Pecan Pralines. In my kitchen, this recipe has become a go-to treat for gatherings, holiday celebrations, and even cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. The delightful blend of ingredients results in an indulgent confection that is impressively simple to make. Each bite brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding me of the sweets shared around family tables during the festive seasons.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the primary reasons to whip up these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is how accessible and rewarding they are. Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, this recipe requires minimal fuss while delivering maximum flavor. It’s a unique treat that encapsulates comfort and warmth, making it ideal for family gatherings or as a homemade gift.
“These pralines are a game-changer! They’re so creamy yet perfectly crunchy—our family devoured them in no time!”
Not only are these pralines a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute celebrations. Plus, they’re budget-friendly—a little goes a long way when crafting these sweet bites.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Vanilla Pecan Pralines is an unhurried process that allows you to appreciate the transformation of a few simple ingredients into a decadent treat. Here’s how it all comes together:
- Combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a heavy saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until dissolved, then let it boil until it reaches 245°F (118°C).
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla chocolate chips until melted.
- Stir in the marshmallow cream and vanilla extract.
- Fold in the pecans and drop onto a baking sheet.
Following these steps ensures a delightful texture and flavor that will impress your family and friends.
What you’ll need
To create your own batch of Vanilla Pecan Pralines, gather the following 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
Feel free to experiment slightly! For instance, you can substitute different nuts or even use milk chocolate if that’s what you prefer.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it hits 245°F (118°C).
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt smoothly.
- Incorporate the marshmallow crème and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Drop rounded tablespoons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also add a delightful touch to various desserts. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving them with a rich coffee or hot chocolate. They also make fantastic toppings for cupcakes or as a sweet finishing touch to a cheese platter—rich pecan flavors balance out the savory perfectly!
Storage and reheating tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your pralines fresh. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated, but note that refrigeration can alter the texture slightly. For longer-term storage, freeze individual pralines by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature to regain their original texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate for perfect results; overcooking can lead to a hard candy mix, while undercooking might make them too soft.
- Stir gently to combine ingredients at the end to prevent the pralines from breaking apart.
- If you want softer pralines, remove them from the heat at a slightly lower temperature, around 240°F (116°C).
Creative twists
Feel free to explore variations with this recipe! Try incorporating different nuts, like walnuts or cashews for a fresh twist. You could even add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel effect. For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. These adaptations can make your creation unique and delicious every time!
Common questions
What is the prep time for Vanilla Pecan Pralines?
Prep time is around 10 minutes, plus the cooking time of about 15 to 20 minutes depending on your stove and candy-making technique.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While vanilla chocolate chips give a distinct flavor, you can substitute for milk or dark chocolate. Just note that this might change the sweetness level slightly.
How can I make these pralines dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute dairy alternatives for butter and evaporated milk, such as coconut oil and coconut cream, respectively.
These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. With their rich flavors, delightful textures, and easy preparation, you’ll find numerous occasions to create—and enjoy—this sweet treat!
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Vanilla Pecan Pralines
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the crunchy pecans combined with smooth vanilla chocolate in these simple yet delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines, perfect for any occasion.
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 crème
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil without stirring, monitoring the temperature until it hits 245°F (118°C).
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt smoothly.
- Incorporate the marshmallow crème and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cool completely before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigeration may alter texture. For longer storage, freeze wrapped pralines.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candy Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg