Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines have been a favorite in my kitchen since I first tasted them at a family reunion in Savannah—sweet, creamy, and filled with that irresistible buttery crunch. I remember standing over the stove with my grandma, the air thick with the smell of vanilla and toasted pecans, sneaking tastes of the warm mixture before it set. This easy Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines recipe is my own little spin—ultra-creamy thanks to marshmallow creme, and packed with perfectly chopped pecans for texture. Whether you’re making a batch for the holidays or looking for the best pecan pralines for parties, this one delivers homemade candy magic in under 30 minutes. Trust me, they taste just as dreamy as they smell. Ready to make your kitchen smell like the South? Here’s how to make them.
What Makes This So Irresistible
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✔️ Only 30 minutes from start to finish!
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✔️ Uses pantry staples—no candy thermometer needed.
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✔️ Melts in your mouth with a creamy texture and rich flavor.
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✔️ Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or a sweet indulgence.
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✔️ Includes pro tips for troubleshooting & storing.
Whether you’re searching for the best Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines for parties or just want an easy pecan praline recipe to try today, this guide has you covered.
Ingredients for Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to create this Southern delicacy:
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2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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7 oz evaporated milk
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1 cup butter, cubed
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1 box (11 oz) vanilla chips (Ghirardelli is highly recommended for flavor)
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4 oz marshmallow creme
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped pecans
💡 Optional Variations:
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Swap white chips for milk or dark chocolate chips.
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Add extra pecans for more crunch.
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Use toasted pecans for a deeper flavor.
How to Make Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines – Step by Step
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Lay out 2 sheets of waxed paper on your counter or cookie sheets. This will be your setting area for the pralines to cool.
Step 2: Start the Sugar Base
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:
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2 1/2 cups sugar
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7 oz evaporated milk
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1 cup cubed butter
Set over medium-low heat and stir constantly. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to maintain a soft simmer.
🕐 Cook Time: Simmer and stir for about 8 minutes. This step ensures the sugar caramelizes slightly for that rich praline flavor.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Creaminess
Once the sugar mixture has simmered, add:
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1 box vanilla chips
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4 oz marshmallow creme
Stir continuously until chips and marshmallow are fully melted and smooth.
Then remove from heat and stir in:
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped pecans
Step 4: Cool Slightly
Let the mixture cool for 2 minutes until it thickens but remains soft. If it hardens too much, add a splash of evaporated milk and stir gently to loosen.
Step 5: Spoon and Set
Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the waxed paper. Let them cool completely until firm.
Step 6: Store Properly
Once hardened, transfer pralines to an airtight container. Use sheets of waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Vanilla Pecan Pralines
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✅ Use a heavy saucepan to prevent scorching or uneven heating.
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✅ Don’t overboil—this can make the pralines dry and grainy.
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✅ Add pecans last to maintain crunch and prevent sogginess.
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✅ To test firmness, drop a small spoonful onto wax paper. It should hold shape in a soft mound.
Can I Make Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines Ahead of Time?
Yes! These pralines can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored at room temperature.
What’s the Secret to Creamy Pralines?
Marshmallow creme and vanilla chips give the candy a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture—no gritty sugar crystals!
Best Ways to Serve Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines
These pralines are sweet perfection on their own, but here are some crowd-pleasing serving ideas:
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🍮 With a hot cup of coffee or Southern sweet tea
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🍓 As a topping on vanilla ice cream or pound cake
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🎁 Packaged in jars or treat bags as DIY gifts
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🧁 Crumbled into frosting for cakes or cupcakes
Nutritional Information (per praline)
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Calories: 230 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 26g
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Fat: 13g
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Protein: 1g
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Sugars: 22g
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Sodium: 50mg
Low-carb version tip: Try reducing sugar and using sugar-free chips.
Storage & Leftovers for Vanilla Pecan Pralines
How Long Do Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, they’ll last:
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At room temperature: 5–7 days
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In the fridge: Up to 2 weeks
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In the freezer: Up to 2 months (wrap individually)
Reheating Tips:
If frozen, thaw at room temperature. Do not microwave, or they’ll melt into a puddle.
FAQS Vanilla Pecan Pralines
What’s the difference between pralines and candied pecans?
Pralines are creamy, sugary candies with pecans inside. Candied pecans are coated nuts—no soft candy base.
Can I use different nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds can be substituted, but pecans are the Southern classic.
Is marshmallow cream necessary?
It’s optional, but adds a creamy texture and helps set the candy beautifully.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just ensure your pot is large enough and stir consistently to avoid burning.
More Must-Try Recipes
Craving more Southern treats? Here are some recipes you’ll love:
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Churro Cheesecake Cookies
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea
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Irresistible Chocolate Loaf Cake
Savor the Ending
There you have it—your ultimate guide to making the best Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines from scratch. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, this simple, foolproof recipe guarantees rich, creamy candies every time.
✅ Try it this weekend.
✅ Share with your friends.
✅ Leave a comment below with your praline-making success stories!
Now you know how to make Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines at home—and probably better than your grandma’s (but don’t tell her that 😉).
Your Turn in the Kitchen
Ready to whip up your first batch of sweet, buttery Southern magic? Let’s do it! And don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @SweetSouthernKitchen if you make this recipe. 💛
Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines | Easy Candy Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 30 pralines 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, buttery Southern Vanilla Pecan Pralines made with marshmallow creme and vanilla chips for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth candy.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 7 oz evaporated milk
- 1 cup butter, cubed
- 11 oz vanilla chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
- 4 oz marshmallow creme
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Lay out 2 sheets of waxed paper on a counter or cookie sheet.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and cubed butter over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add vanilla chips and marshmallow creme. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Let mixture cool for 2 minutes until thickened but still scoopable.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto waxed paper and let cool completely until firm.
- Store in an airtight container, placing waxed paper between layers.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid scorching.
- If the mixture thickens too much before spooning, stir in a tablespoon of evaporated milk.
- Toasted pecans add deeper flavor.
- Store at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 praline
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
