Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla pecan pralines are a classic Southern treat, offering a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and nutty crunch. These easy-to-make candies are ideal for sharing or enjoying as a special homemade gift.

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

1. Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter.
2. Step 2: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Step 3: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt smoothly.
5. Step 5: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract until fully combined.
6. Step 6: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the mixture.
7. Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of the praline mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the proper temperature for perfect texture.
• For a richer flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them in.
• Substitute the vanilla chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a slightly different sweetness.
• If you prefer softer pralines, remove the mixture from the heat a few degrees earlier, around 240°F (115°C).

Storage

Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them away from heat and humidity to prevent melting. If desired, reheat briefly in the microwave to soften before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of vanilla chocolate chips?

Yes, you can substitute regular or white chocolate chips; just keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor of your pralines.

How do I know when the praline mixture is done cooking?

The mixture is ready when it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer, also known as the soft-ball stage, which ensures the pralines will set properly.

Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 136 reviews

Delicious and creamy Vanilla Pecan Pralines made with rich evaporated milk, butter, vanilla chocolate chips, and chopped pecans. This classic Southern confection is sweet, nutty, and perfect for gifting or enjoying as a satisfying treat.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 24 pralines 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Praline Mixture

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

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. This base mixture will be the foundation of your pralines.
2. Dissolve Sugar: Cook over medium heat and stir constantly to dissolve the sugar fully into the evaporated milk and butter, ensuring the mixture is smooth without graininess.
3. Boil to Temperature: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the key temperature for perfect praline consistency.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt completely, creating a creamy, flavorful base.
5. Incorporate Flavors: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract thoroughly to add smoothness and deepen the vanilla flavor.
6. Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly, ensuring every praline will have a nutty crunch.
7. Shape and Cool: Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool completely at room temperature until set before serving.

Notes

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
• Do not stir the mixture while boiling to avoid crystallization; just let it reach the correct temperature.
• A candy thermometer is essential for precise temperature control.
• Allow pralines to cool completely before removing from the baking sheet to maintain their shape.
• Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Keywords: Vanilla pralines, pecan pralines, Southern candy, nutty dessert, fudge candy, homemade sweets