Vanilla Pecan Pralines – A Southern Classic You’ll Love
There’s something irresistible about the creamy, nutty sweetness of homemade pralines—and this Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe is a family favorite I’ve made for years. It’s simple, rich, and perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or whenever you’re craving a sweet Southern treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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2 ½ cups granulated sugar
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7 oz evaporated milk
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¼ cup butter, cubed
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1 package (11 oz) vanilla or white chocolate chips (I always go for Ghirardelli!)
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4 oz marshmallow crème
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped pecans
How I Make My Vanilla Pecan Pralines:
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Start with the setup: Lay out two long sheets of waxed paper on your counter or cookie sheets—these will catch your pralines once they’re ready to cool.
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Cook the base: In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Heat on medium-low, stirring non-stop until it starts to boil. Once it boils, turn it down to a low boil and keep stirring for about 8 minutes.
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Melt in the magic: Now, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla or white chocolate chips and marshmallow crème until everything is fully melted and smooth.
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Add the flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and fold in those chopped pecans. Mix until the nuts are well coated and everything’s evenly combined.
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Drop and cool: Let the praline mixture cool for just a couple of minutes—just enough for it to thicken slightly while staying creamy. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of evaporated milk to loosen it up. Then, use a tablespoon to drop candy-sized portions onto your waxed paper.
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Let them set: Allow the pralines to cool at room temperature until they firm up.
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Storage tip: Once cooled, store them in an airtight container with waxed paper between layers to keep them from sticking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vanilla pecan pralines are smooth, buttery, and loaded with pecan crunch. The addition of white chocolate chips and marshmallow crème gives them an extra creamy finish that melts in your mouth. They’re easy to make, always a hit, and perfect for anyone who loves a good Southern dessert.
For more details, visit the full recipe