Vanilla Pecan Pralines

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are not just delicious; they hold a special place in my heart. I remember making them with my family during the holidays, filling our kitchen with the rich aroma of melting chocolate and toasty pecans. They are perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights at home, or even as a thoughtful gift to share with friends. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful pralines quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and nutty flavor of Vanilla Pecan Pralines, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These treats store well, so you can prepare them in advance and have them ready whenever the craving strikes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and pecans creates a rich taste that’s truly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delectable Vanilla Pecan Pralines. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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 crème
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

The beauty of these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
• Nutty Alternatives: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Use dark chocolate chips instead of vanilla for a richer taste.
• Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique flair.

How to Make Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by combining the sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. This creates the base for your praline mixture. Using a heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.

Step 2: Cook Until Boiling

Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Stirring ensures that all ingredients blend nicely and helps avoid any sticking or burning on the bottom.

Step 3: Reach the Right Temperature

Continue boiling without stirring until your mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This is known as the firm-ball stage. Getting this temperature right is key for achieving that perfect praline texture!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Once you remove your pan from heat, stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they melt smoothly into the mixture. This adds creamy richness to your pralines that pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecans.

Step 5: Mix in Marshmallow Crème and Vanilla Extract

Next, add the vegan marshmallows crème and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The marshmallow crème brings an extra layer of creaminess that makes these pralines so delightful.

Step 6: Stir in Pecans

Now it’s time to fold in those lovely chopped pecans! Give everything a good stir to coat them evenly. The pecans add crunchiness that perfectly balances the smoothness of the chocolate.

Step 7: Drop onto Baking Sheet

Using rounded tablespoons, drop your mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This is where they will set up into delicious little mounds—perfectly sized for snacking!

Step 8: Cool Completely Before Serving

Allow your pralines to cool completely before serving. Patience is key here! Once they’ve cooled down, they will harden beautifully and be ready for everyone to enjoy.

Now you have an amazing batch of Vanilla Pecan Pralines that will surely please anyone who takes a bite! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Making Vanilla Pecan Pralines can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few helpful tips up your sleeve!

• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps to distribute heat evenly, preventing the sugar from burning while you cook your mixture.

• Watch the temperature closely: Using a candy thermometer ensures you reach the perfect firm-ball stage, resulting in that ideal chewy texture and flavor that makes pralines so irresistible.

• Stir constantly at first: Keeping the mixture moving during the initial cooking phase helps dissolve the sugar properly and prevents crystallization, which can ruin the smooth texture of your pralines.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your pralines to cool on the parchment paper ensures they set properly without sticking, making for easier serving and cleanup.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the taste profile even more!

How to Serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Presenting your Vanilla Pecan Pralines can turn them into an impressive treat for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to showcase them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of your pralines for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Drizzle of vegan chocolate: A light drizzle of melted vegan chocolate adds an elegant touch and enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of pralines.
• Vegan ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vegan ice cream for a delightful combination that’s sure to please everyone.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Pairing pralines with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere and complements their sweetness perfectly.
• Nut butter spread: A small dish of almond or cashew butter can offer a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of your pralines beautifully.

Enjoy creating and sharing these scrumptious Vanilla Pecan Pralines with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are perfect for meal prep and make a delightful treat that can be enjoyed later. With a few simple storage tips, you can keep these sweets fresh and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They’ll stay fresh for up to one week—if they last that long!
• Keep them away from humidity to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange the pralines on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these pralines, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If you prefer a warm treat, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a soft melt-in-your-mouth experience.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vanilla Pecan Pralines that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

How can I ensure my Vanilla Pecan Pralines turn out perfectly?

To achieve the best results when making Vanilla Pecan Pralines, make sure to monitor the temperature closely with a candy thermometer and stir consistently until it reaches the firm-ball stage.

Can I add different flavors to my Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Yes! You can experiment by adding flavors like almond extract or even a hint of sea salt to enhance their taste. Just remember not to overpower the vanilla!

What’s the best way to serve Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

These pralines are great as standalone treats or served alongside coffee or tea. They also make lovely gifts when packaged nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines! This recipe brings together rich flavors and creamy textures that everyone will adore. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, I encourage you to dive into this sweet adventure. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!