🍬 Vanilla Pecan Pralines – A Southern Candy Classic

Few confections capture the warmth and charm of the South quite like Vanilla Pecan Pralines. Rich, nutty, creamy, and sweet with just the right touch of vanilla, these pralines are a time-honored tradition — especially around the holidays. Whether wrapped as edible gifts 🎁, served at family gatherings, or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, pralines embody Southern hospitality in candy form.

Today, we’ll explore how to make this delightful treat with an easy, foolproof recipe, expert chef tips, nutrition insights, and creative serving suggestions that make these pralines shine in every setting.

🌟 Why You’ll Love Vanilla Pecan Pralines

• 🥜 Nutty Goodness: Chopped pecans provide crunch and depth of flavor.
• 🍫 Rich & Creamy: White chocolate chips and marshmallow creme add luscious creaminess.
• ✨ Festive & Gift-Worthy: Perfect for holidays, weddings, or special occasions.
• 🍯 Classic Flavor: Buttery vanilla base creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 👩‍🍳 Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps with guaranteed candy-shop results.

🛒 Ingredients for Vanilla Pecan Pralines

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1 package (11 oz) vanilla or white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 4 oz marshmallow creme
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans

👉 Tip: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor. Toast them lightly before adding for extra depth.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Space

Line two cookie sheets or your countertop with long sheets of waxed paper.

Step 2: Cook the Base

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low boil and cook for 8 minutes while stirring.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Creaminess

Stir in the vanilla or white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Flavor & Nutty Finish

Mix in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until evenly coated.

Step 5: Cool and Drop

Allow mixture to cool for 2–3 minutes until thick but still creamy. If it becomes too firm, add 1–2 teaspoons of evaporated milk and stir.

Step 6: Shape the Pralines

Drop mixture by tablespoons onto waxed paper. Let cool completely until set.

Step 7: Store

Layer pralines in an airtight container, separating with waxed paper to prevent sticking.

🍴 Expert Chef Tips

• Chef Bobby Flay: “Toast the pecans first to unlock a deeper, nuttier flavor that makes these pralines unforgettable.”
• Ina Garten: “Use real vanilla extract — it’s worth the upgrade for a more luxurious taste.”
• Ree Drummond: “For a festive twist, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled pralines.”
• Gordon Ramsay: “Temperature control is key. Stir constantly to avoid crystallization.”

🥗 Nutrition & Health Benefits

⚠️ Health & Safety Notes

• Work quickly — praline mixture hardens fast once removed from heat.
• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.
• Keep children at a safe distance while cooking hot sugar mixtures.
• Store pralines in a cool, dry place to maintain texture.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• 🎁 Wrap pralines in festive bags or tins for holiday gifts.
• ☕ Serve with coffee or tea as an afternoon treat.
• 🍨 Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert topping.
• 🍷 Pair with dessert wine for a sophisticated after-dinner sweet.

📚 Related Southern Treats You’ll Love

Discover more sweet delights at Fresh Toner Hungar:

• Classic Southern Pecan Pie
• Caramel Candy Recipes
• Holiday Cookie Ideas
• White Chocolate Dessert Recipes

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did my pralines turn grainy?

This happens if sugar crystallizes. Stir constantly and cook evenly to avoid it.

2. Can I make pralines without marshmallow creme?

Yes, but they will be less creamy. Increase the chocolate slightly for balance.

3. Do pralines need refrigeration?

No, store at room temperature in an airtight container. Refrigeration may change texture.

4. Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white?

Yes! This will give pralines a richer, more intense flavor.

5. How long do pralines last?

They last 2–3 weeks when stored in a cool, dry place.

6. Can I freeze pralines?

Yes, freeze in layers with wax paper between them. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

7. How can I make pralines softer?

Add 1–2 teaspoons of evaporated milk if mixture becomes too thick before dropping.

8. Are pralines gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

9. Can I make pralines without pecans?

You can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or cashews.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a large saucepan and work quickly when shaping pralines.

🎀 Final Thoughts

Vanilla Pecan Pralines are more than candy — they’re a piece of culinary tradition that connects family, friends, and holiday celebrations. With their nutty crunch, creamy texture, and rich vanilla flavor, they make every occasion sweeter. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring quietly with a cup of coffee, these pralines are a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

So grab your pecans, sugar, and vanilla, and create a batch of homemade pralines that spread joy one bite at a time. ❤️