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Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

4.9 from 483 reviews

Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of homemade Vanilla Pecan Pralines. These delightful candies combine creamy vanilla chocolate, toasted pecans, and a touch of marshmallow creme for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for gifting or as a decadent treat any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Praline Base

  • 2.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 7 oz evaporated milk
  • 0.25 cup butter, cubed

Flavor & Texture Additions

  • 11 oz vanilla chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 4 oz marshmallow creme

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter. Stir constantly over medium heat to begin dissolving the sugar evenly.
  2. Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 245°F (118°C), the soft ball stage, which ensures the proper texture for your pralines.
  3. Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla chocolate chips until they are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Incorporate Marshmallow and Vanilla: Mix in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract thoroughly to add smoothness and enhance the flavor complexity of the pralines.
  5. Add Pecans: Fold the chopped pecans evenly into the candy mixture to distribute the nutty crunch in every bite.
  6. Form Pralines: Using a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool completely and harden at room temperature before serving.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the mixture from burning.
  • Do not stir the mixture during boiling to avoid crystallization; only stir before boiling and when adding ingredients after heat.
  • The candy thermometer is essential to achieve the perfect chewy texture.
  • For best results, let the pralines cool for at least 1 hour to set completely.
  • Store pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Keywords: vanilla pralines, pecan pralines, homemade candy, southern candy recipe, vanilla chocolate pralines, pecan candy