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Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 55 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Approximately 40 pralines
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

Delight in the rich, creamy sweetness of Vanilla Pecan Pralines, a classic Southern treat combining the smooth flavors of white chocolate, vanilla, and marshmallow creme with crunchy toasted pecans. These pralines are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a decadent snack, offering a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture with every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Praline Mixture

  • 2½ cups granulated sugar
  • 7 oz evaporated milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 (11 oz) package white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
  • 4 oz marshmallow creme
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Nuts

  • 2 cups pecans, chopped


Instructions

  1. Prepare baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease foil to prevent sticking when the pralines are set.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Stir constantly to avoid burning and allow the mixture to dissolve evenly.
  3. Boil mixture: Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
  4. Add chocolate chips: Remove saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the white chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Incorporate marshmallow and vanilla: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
  6. Add pecans: Fold the chopped pecans evenly into the praline mixture, distributing the nuts throughout.
  7. Portion pralines: Using a spoon, quickly scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of the praline mixture onto the prepared baking sheet to form individual pralines.
  8. Let set: Allow the pralines to cool and set at room temperature for 30–60 minutes or until firm before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning the sugar mixture.
  • Work quickly when scooping pralines since the mixture hardens as it cools.
  • Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • For a richer flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the mixture.
  • Ensure constant stirring while boiling to avoid crystallization of the sugar.