Description
Sweet Southern charm emerges in these Classic Vanilla Pecan Pralines, delivering rich caramelized notes with buttery pecans. Creamy confections melt deliciously, offering a delightful taste of New Orleans culinary heritage you’ll savor with pure indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 7 ounces (198 grams) evaporated milk
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 package (11 ounces or 312 grams) vanilla or white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
Binding/Texture Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) marshmallow creme
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, cubed
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Lay out two extended waxed paper sheets across cookie sheets or countertop, creating a smooth landing zone for the freshly crafted pralines.
- Combine sugar, milk, and butter in a robust saucepan, initiating a gentle heat process. Maintain constant stirring while elevating the temperature to a rolling boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Continue cooking and stirring for approximately 8 minutes, watching for a rich, caramel-like transformation.
- Incorporate vanilla chips and marshmallow creme into the heated mixture, stirring until the chips completely dissolve and create a smooth, glossy texture. Remove from heat source and gently fold in vanilla extract and chopped pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy concoction.
- Allow the praline mixture to rest and slightly cool for 2-3 minutes, developing a thick yet pliable consistency. If the mixture appears too dense, introduce a small amount of evaporated milk and thoroughly integrate to restore optimal texture.
- Using a tablespoon, delicately drop spoonfuls of the praline mixture onto the prepared waxed paper, creating individual confectionery circles. Let the pralines settle and solidify at room temperature.
- Once completely cooled, transfer the pralines to an airtight container, strategically positioning waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate structure.
Notes
- Pick a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution and prevent sugar from burning quickly.
- Stir continuously during cooking to avoid sugar crystallization and ensure smooth pralines.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, aiming for the soft-ball stage around 235-240°F.
- Allow pralines to cool completely before storing to maintain their signature crisp texture and prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 259
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 36 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg