Description
Craving something sweet and Southern? These Vanilla Pecan Pralines are creamy, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Made with just a few ingredients like sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and toasty pecans, this classic candy comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you're looking for quick dessert ideas, holiday gifts, or a sweet snack, this easy recipe delivers rich, nutty flavor and irresistible texture. It's a go-to favorite for those who love easy candy recipes, Southern sweets, and food gifts from the kitchen.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup evaporated milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups pecan halves (lightly toasted)
⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes until fragrant, then set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture begins to bubble.
3. Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and takes on a light caramel color (or reaches 235°F if using a thermometer).
4. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and all the pecans. Stir vigorously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture thickens and loses its gloss.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared pan. Optional: press a pecan half into the top of each praline.
6. Let the pralines cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm and set.
7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10 days.
Notes
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
Have all your ingredients and tools prepped in advance—this recipe moves fast once it starts setting.
Lightly toasting the pecans adds rich flavor and helps maintain their crunch in the finished candy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: vanilla pecan pralines, easy candy recipe, holiday sweets, Southern dessert, quick dessert ideas, food gifts, pralines, nut candy