Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with this delectable recipe for Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight. These creamy pralines offer a delightful blend of vanilla, pecans, and a hint of sweetness that will transport your taste buds to a Southern paradise. Perfect for sharing as a homemade gift during the holidays or for treating yourself to a little indulgence, these pralines are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Inspired by a cherished family recipe from New Orleans, these vanilla pecan pralines hold a special place in my heart. The addition of rich vanilla or white chocolate chips elevates the classic flavors, adding a unique twist that never fails to impress. Whether you’re reminiscing about Sunday afternoons at grandma’s house or looking to create new memories with loved ones, these delightful candies are guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.

Don’t let humidity dampen your candy-making spirits! For the perfect texture and appearance, aim to prepare these vanilla pecan pralines on dry, low-humidity days. The careful balance of ingredients, including marshmallow creme, evaporated milk, and butter, ensures a smooth and creamy consistency that will have you reaching for seconds. Get ready to savor the irresistible charm of these Vanilla Pecan Candy Delights – a true delight for the senses.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and smooth texture provided by marshmallow creme, evaporated milk, and butter
• Unique and indulgent flavor profile enhanced by vanilla or white chocolate chips
• Versatile recipe allows for creativity with different nuts, spices, or liquor additions
• Traditional Southern charm with a balance of sweetness and nutty crunch

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe Recipe

• Southern Charm: These creamy vanilla pecan pralines bring a taste of Southern charm to your dessert table, perfect for those who love traditional Southern treats.
• Perfectly Balanced: The recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness from the sugar and vanilla chips, paired with the nutty crunch of pecans, appealing to those who enjoy a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
• Homemade Gift Idea: Ideal for gifting during the holidays, these pralines make beautiful and thoughtful homemade gifts, perfect for those who love to share homemade treats with loved ones.
• Nostalgic Connection: The recipe evokes nostalgic memories and a sense of tradition, making it perfect for those who enjoy recipes with sentimental value and a connection to cherished memories.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of vanilla chips gives these pralines a unique flavor that sets them apart from traditional recipes, appealing to those who enjoy experimenting with new flavors.
• Versatile: The basic recipe serves as a canvas for creativity, allowing for various flavor variations like bourbon or rum, different nuts, or spices, making it perfect for those who love to customize and experiment in the kitchen.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of marshmallow creme, evaporated milk, and butter ensures a smooth and creamy texture, appealing to those who appreciate creamy and indulgent desserts.
• Storage Convenience: Pralines can be made in advance and stored properly, making them a convenient treat to have on hand, perfect for those who like to plan ahead for special occasions or cravings.

Ingredients for Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 4 oz marshmallow creme
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 package (11 oz) vanilla or white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 7 oz evaporated milk

Pro Tips for Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To achieve the perfect creamy texture for your vanilla pecan pralines, be mindful of the cooking temperature. Maintain a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, during the cooking process, and allow the mixture to cool slightly before dropping onto your baking sheet. This will help ensure the proper crystal structure forms without becoming too firm or grainy.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different flavor variations to put your own spin on this classic recipe. Consider adding a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for a sophisticated touch, or incorporate spices like cinnamon or cardamom for warmth. You can also try using different nuts such as walnuts or macadamias to create unique texture variations while still maintaining the essential praline character.

Pro Tip 3: Store your vanilla pecan pralines in an airtight container, layering them with wax paper to prevent sticking. These treats can be made a few days in advance and will keep well when stored properly. For the best results, try making them on dry, low humidity days to ensure they set properly and maintain their ideal texture.

How to Make Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare workspace

Place two lengthy wax paper sheets on cookie sheets or your countertop.

Step 2: Combine base ingredients

Combine sugar, milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring continuously.

Step 3: Mix in vanilla chips and marshmallow creme

Add vanilla chips and marshmallow creme, stirring until chips are melted. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla and pecans until evenly combined.

Step 4: Cool mixture slightly

Allow the mixture to cool for 2–3 minutes until thick yet creamy. If it is too firm, mix in a few teaspoons of evaporated milk.

Step 5: Form pralines

Using a tablespoon, place dollops of the mixture onto waxed paper. Allow the pralines to cool and set.

Step 6: Store pralines

Place the candy in an airtight container, separating layers with waxed paper.

Storage Tips

To store your Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight pralines, ensure they are completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container. Layer the pralines with wax paper to prevent them from sticking together. Place the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Proper storage in an airtight container will help maintain the pralines’ freshness and texture for several days.

These pralines can be made ahead of time as they store well. By preparing them a few days before serving, you can save time and ensure you have a delicious treat on hand for any occasion. Just remember to store them properly in an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture. Whether you’re gifting them during the holidays or enjoying them as a special indulgence, storing the pralines correctly will keep them tasting their best for as long as possible.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a nut-free version of this Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight, you can try substituting the pecans with an equal amount of toasted coconut flakes or chopped dried fruit like cherries or apricots. These alternatives will still provide a delightful texture and flavor contrast to the creamy vanilla pralines.

For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute like vegan margarine or coconut oil. Make sure to use a variety that solidifies well at room temperature to help the pralines set properly. This swap will maintain the richness and creaminess of the candy while catering to dietary preferences.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can experiment with using dark chocolate chips or butterscotch chips instead of vanilla or white chocolate chips. These alternatives will bring a deeper, more intense flavor to the pralines while still providing a deliciously decadent treat. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite chocolate or butterscotch chips to create a unique twist on this classic Southern candy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamy vanilla pecan pralines on a beautiful platter as a sweet ending to a Southern-inspired meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for an extra nutty crunch and a touch of elegance. These pralines also make a lovely addition to a dessert board alongside fresh fruits, cheeses, and a selection of fine chocolates for a decadent treat that will impress any guest.

For a fun twist, consider incorporating these vanilla pecan pralines into a homemade ice cream sundae bar. Crush a couple of pralines and sprinkle them over scoops of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and top with a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors will create a delightful dessert experience that everyone will love.

FAQs for Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Can I use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans in this recipe?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans, but pecans are traditional and provide a classic flavor.

What type of chocolate chips do you recommend for this recipe?

Vanilla or white chocolate chips are recommended for their smooth flavor that complements the pecans.

How should I store these vanilla pecan pralines?

Store the pralines in an airtight container, layering them with wax paper to prevent sticking.

Can I make these pralines in advance?

Yes, pralines can be made a few days in advance and stored properly. They keep well in an airtight container.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own batch of Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight, remember that each step is an opportunity to infuse love and care into your creation. Whether you’re making these pralines for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the process is a chance to slow down, savor the aromas, and revel in the art of candy making.

The warmth of vanilla, the richness of pecans, and the sweetness of the white chocolate chips all come together in perfect harmony in this Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight recipe. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen. Your efforts will be rewarded with a batch of irresistible pralines that are sure to delight everyone who tastes them. Enjoy the sweet moments of indulgence that these Vanilla Pecan Candy Delight pralines bring into your life.

Decadent Vanilla Pecan Candy Recipe

Indulge in the perfect blend of Southern charm and creamy sweetness with these Vanilla Pecan Pralines – a delightful holiday treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time8 Minutes

Total Time18 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

ServingsApproximately 24 pralines

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 oz marshmallow creme
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 package (11 oz) vanilla or white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 7 oz evaporated milk

Instructions

1. Prepare workspace: Place two lengthy wax paper sheets on cookie sheets or your countertop.
2. Combine base ingredients: Combine sugar, milk, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring continuously.
3. Mix in vanilla chips and marshmallow creme: Add vanilla chips and marshmallow creme, stirring until chips are melted. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla and pecans until evenly combined.
4. Cool mixture slightly: Allow the mixture to cool for 2–3 minutes until thick yet creamy. If it is too firm, mix in a few teaspoons of evaporated milk.
5. Form pralines: Using a tablespoon, place dollops of the mixture onto waxed paper. Allow the pralines to cool and set.
6. Store pralines: Place the candy in an airtight container, separating layers with waxed paper.