Vanilla Pecan Pralines

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If your sweet tooth is whispering for something creamy, nutty, and unapologetically indulgent, Vanilla Pecan Pralines are your answer. These Southern-style confections offer melt-in-your-mouth texture and a buttery richness balanced with the earthy crunch of toasted pecans. With their glossy vanilla coating and rustic charm, they belong at every holiday party, dessert tray, and afternoon tea.

Making pralines at home is simpler than you might think. With a few pantry staples and a candy thermometer, you can create a nostalgic treat that feels like it came straight from a small-town bakery. Whether you’re gifting them or sneaking a second one for yourself, Vanilla Pecan Pralines will never disappoint.

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Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Pecan Pralines Recipe

These pralines deliver that perfect Southern combination of creaminess and crunch. They set up firm yet tender, and the touch of vanilla adds warmth without overwhelming the buttery, nutty flavor. It’s a no-fuss recipe that offers high reward with minimal effort—great for beginners and pros alike. Plus, they make the most charming edible gift!

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What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Use fresh, raw pecan halves or pieces. Toasting them lightly before stirring them into the candy enhances their flavor and brings out their natural oils. If you can, opt for Georgia pecans or other high-quality varieties with sweet, buttery profiles. Avoid pre-roasted or salted ones—they’ll throw off the flavor balance.

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Ingredients for the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Each ingredient in these pralines plays an essential role. Here’s what you’ll need:

Granulated Sugar: The sweet foundation that caramelizes to give the pralines their body.

Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor, enriching the candy’s complexity.

Heavy Cream: This gives the pralines their luscious, creamy texture.

Unsalted Butter: A buttery backbone that makes each bite melt away.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and brings warmth to the flavor.

Pecan Halves: The star of the show! Toasted for crunch and nutty richness.

Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate all the other flavors.

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How To Make the Vanilla Pecan Pralines

Step 1: Prep Your Pecans

Lightly toast the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 2: Start the Candy Base

In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir over medium heat until the sugars dissolve.

Step 3: Bring It to Temperature

Clip on a candy thermometer. Let the mixture bubble gently, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage).

Step 4: Add the Vanilla and Pecans

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and loses some of its gloss.

Step 5: Drop the Pralines

Quickly spoon tablespoon-sized rounds onto parchment paper. Let them cool and set for about 30 minutes.

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How to Serve and Store Vanilla Pecan Pralines

This recipe makes about 20 to 24 pralines, perfect for sharing or stashing for sweet emergencies. They make elegant party favors, cookie tray additions, or a sweet ending to a cozy dinner.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze in layers with parchment between.

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What to Serve With Vanilla Pecan Pralines?

Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of pralines beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Crush pralines and sprinkle over ice cream for added texture and flavor.

Bourbon or Whiskey

A small glass of bourbon enhances the warm vanilla and caramel notes.

Chocolate-Dipped Fruit

Adds a decadent contrast to the creamy pralines.

Creamy Brie or Camembert

Serve pralines alongside cheese for a sweet-savory appetizer spread.

Apple Pie

Pair with a slice of classic apple pie for a nostalgic dessert duo.

Sweet Tea

A Southern favorite that keeps it all feeling traditional.

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Want More Candy Ideas?

If you love these Vanilla Pecan Pralines, here are more sweet creations worth checking out:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity dessert.
• Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins if you want warm, spiced sweetness.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a nostalgic, cookie twist.
• Chocolate Instant Pudding for a super quick fix.
• Peach Cobbler Crumble Bars for summer fruit fans.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pecans extra dark? Add a hint of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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