Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

Name: Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 pralines
Ingredients: 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Elevate your holiday dessert table with these delightful Vanilla Pecan Pralines. These buttery, rich treats offer a perfect balance of sweet vanilla flavor and crunchy pecans, making them an irresistible addition to your Christmas cookie collection. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with family, these pralines are sure to become a favorite this festive season.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T06:17:34.595Z

These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are a time-honored tradition in our family, enjoyed during the holiday season. They melt in your mouth and are a crowd-pleaser at every gathering.

A Timeless Treat for All Occasions

Pralines are a classic confection that seamlessly blend tradition with delight, making them perfect for any occasion. The rich, buttery flavor coupled with the crunch of pecans means that they can be enjoyed at holiday gatherings, family reunions, or even as a sweet after-dinner treat. With their nostalgic appeal, these Vanilla Pecan Pralines evoke memories of cherished family recipes passed down through generations. Each bite offers not just a taste, but a treasured moment of sharing and joy.

These pralines are more than just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile. While they shine as a holiday dessert, they can also be made year-round. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply treating yourself on a quiet evening, these pralines fit right in. Imagine placing a box of them on your coffee table for guests to enjoy or sending them as thoughtful gifts, wrapped in beautiful paper. Their timeless charm makes them a welcome addition to any dessert platter.

Perfect for Gifting

One of the best aspects of these Vanilla Pecan Pralines is how beautifully they lend themselves to gifting. Imagine packaging them in decorative tins or jars, adorned with ribbons, and presenting them to friends and family. The personal touch of homemade delights will always be cherished, and these pralines are a fabulous way to show you care. They embody warmth and thoughtfulness, making them the perfect gift for holidays, housewarmings, or as a heartfelt 'thank you.'

Moreover, pralines are easy to make in large batches, which means you can create enough to share and enjoy. The process itself becomes an opportunity to involve loved ones, turning candy-making into a fun activity. Your family or friends can help chop pecans, stir the boiling mixture, or package the treats once they cool. This not only creates lasting memories but also enhances the festive spirit, fostering a sense of community and joy.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to measure everything out before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pralines:

Prepare the Pecan Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a boil.

Add Vanilla and Pecans

Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Form the Pralines

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Let cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Pecan Pralines!

Tips for the Best Pralines

To achieve the perfect texture for your Vanilla Pecan Pralines, it is crucial to monitor the temperature of the candy mixture as it cooks. Use a candy thermometer if you have one, aiming for the soft ball stage (approximately 234°F). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small spoonful of the mixture into cold water: if it forms a soft ball, it's ready. This will help ensure your pralines aren’t too gooey or overly hard.

Additionally, using fresh pecans can significantly enhance the flavor and crunch of your pralines. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture — this simple step helps to deepen their nutty flavor, making your pralines irresistible. Just be sure to let them cool before chopping, so they retain their texture.

Storage and Longevity

Once your Vanilla Pecan Pralines are cooled and set, storing them correctly will prolong their delightful crunch and flavor. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally separated by layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Properly stored, these treats can last for up to two weeks, making them a great option for pre-holiday prep or as a sweet surprise throughout the month.

If you find yourself with a surplus of pralines or want to prepare ahead, consider freezing them. Place the pralines in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once they’re solid. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature. This way, you can always have a batch on hand for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

→ How should I store the pralines?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.