Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt completely, creating a creamy, flavorful base.
- Incorporate Flavors: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract thoroughly to add smoothness and deepen the vanilla flavor.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans evenly, ensuring every praline will have a nutty crunch.
- 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