Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as comforting as a warm hug, then you absolutely have to try these Vanilla Pecan Pralines! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years. Every time I prepare them, the kitchen fills with the rich aroma of vanilla and sugar, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a fun family night, these pralines are sure to be a hit!

What makes this recipe truly special is the delightful combination of creamy vanilla chocolate chips and crunchy pecans. They’re not just delicious; they’re also easy to make! So grab your apron, and let’s get started on making these irresistible Vanilla Pecan Pralines together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and nutty flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these pralines fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Treat: These pralines can be made in advance and stored for whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla and pecans offers a unique twist that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’ll only need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Pralines

• 2.5 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 7 oz evaporated milk
• 0.25 cup butter (cubed)
• 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 4 oz vegan marshmallows creme
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best parts about making Vanilla Pecan Pralines is how flexible this recipe can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Spice: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.
• Dried Fruits: Add in some dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture contrast.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over your pralines after they cool for an added treat!

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by combining sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This mixture forms the base of our pralines. Cooking it over medium heat while stirring constantly ensures that the sugar dissolves completely, which is crucial for achieving that smooth texture.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Once everything is mixed well, continue cooking until the mixture comes to a boil. It’s important not to stir during this phase; you want it to boil freely until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This temperature indicates we’ve reached the firm-ball stage, which gives our pralines just the right consistency.

Step 3: Stir in the Chocolate Chips

Remove your saucepan from heat and stir in those delicious vanilla chocolate chips. The warmth from the mixture will melt them perfectly into your base, creating that creamy goodness that makes these pralines so special.

Step 4: Mix in Marshmallow Creme and Vanilla Extract

Next up, add in the vegan marshmallows creme along with your vanilla extract. This step ensures each bite stays soft and flavorful. Stir until everything is well combined—this is where all those wonderful flavors meld together!

Step 5: Fold in Pecans

Now it’s time to add those chopped pecans into the mix. Gently fold them in so they get coated evenly with our rich mixture. The crunch from the nuts adds such an enjoyable texture to each praline.

Step 6: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop dollops of your mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them space because they will spread slightly as they cool.

Step 7: Let Cool Completely

Lastly, allow your pralines to cool completely before serving. Once set, they’ll become firm and ready to enjoy—perfectly sweet with every bite!

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Vanilla Pecan Pralines ready to delight friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making these delightful treats can be a joyful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use a candy thermometer: This tool is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Cooking to the firm-ball stage (245°F/118°C) guarantees that your pralines will set properly without being too soft or too hard.

• Stir consistently: When cooking the sugar mixture, stirring continuously helps dissolve the sugar evenly and prevents it from burning, ensuring a smooth texture.

• Cool on parchment paper: Dropping the praline mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets allows for easy removal once they cool and set, preventing any sticking mishaps.

• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your pralines to cool completely before serving ensures they have the perfect texture and flavor.

• Experiment with nuts: While pecans are traditional, feel free to swap in other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a delightful twist on this classic recipe!

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines not only make a delicious treat but also serve as an elegant gift or dessert. Here are some ideas to present them beautifully and enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of dairy-free chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the cooled pralines adds an extra touch of elegance and indulgence.
• Sprinkle of sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before they set can create a beautiful contrast with the sweetness, amplifying the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries and citrus complements the rich pralines perfectly, balancing sweetness with tartness.
• Vegan ice cream: Serve these pralines alongside a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream flavor for an indulgent dessert experience that’s sure to impress.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Pairing these pralines with a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere and enhances their rich flavors, making it a lovely afternoon treat.
• Chia seed pudding: A light chia seed pudding topped with fresh fruits offers a nutritious contrast and makes for a delightful dessert pairing after enjoying your pralines.

Enjoy creating these sweet delights, and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they make a delightful treat, but they also store wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy them over time.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep your pralines in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Avoid placing them in the fridge as it can change their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the pralines in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• While pralines are best enjoyed at room temperature, if desired, you can gently warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
• Be cautious not to overheat as it may affect their creamy texture.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Vanilla Pecan Pralines, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly.

How long do Vanilla Pecan Pralines last?

When stored properly at room temperature, these delectable treats last about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I make Vanilla Pecan Pralines without vegan marshmallow creme?

Yes! If you prefer not to use vegan marshmallow creme, you can replace it with a similar amount of light corn syrup or omit it altogether for a firmer texture.

Are Vanilla Pecan Pralines gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients are labeled gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Vanilla Pecan Pralines brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine! With their rich flavors and delightful crunch, they’re sure to become a beloved addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy making these sweet treats and share them with loved ones – they’ll appreciate every bite! Happy cooking!