Nilla Pralines are a delightful treat that combines the iconic taste of vanilla wafers with a rich, sweet praline topping. The candies are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence. Let’s whip up the little bites of happiness and enjoy a taste of nostalgia.
When making Nilla Pralines, feel free to substitute margarine with butter if you prefer a richer flavor. If you have nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds or omitting the nuts altogether; the candy will still maintain its delicious sweetness. Sourcing quality vanilla wafers and pecans can truly enhance the final product, so check your local stores or specialty shops for the best options.
Fudge & Candy
Nilla Pralines Recipe
Ingredients
- 24 vanilla wafers
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup whipping cream
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons margarine or 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup Planters pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Cover 2 cookie sheets with waxed paper; place 12 wafers 2 inches apart on each sheet.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar, 2/3 cup whipping cream, and 1/4 cup water. Heat on medium, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture cook until it reaches 235°F, known as the soft ball stage.
- Add 2 tablespoons margarine or butter to the mixture, but do not stir. Allow it to cool to 150°F, which takes about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, stir in 1 cup of chopped Planters pecans and 1 teaspoon vanilla into the sugar mixture.
- Using a wooden spoon, beat the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to thicken but remains glossy.
- Quickly pour 1 tablespoon of the praline mixture over each wafer. If the mixture starts to stiffen, you can stir in a few drops of water to loosen it up.
- Allow the pralines to cool completely until they are firm; then peel them from the waxed paper.
- Store the pralines in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
If you’re looking for a delightful candy that has no sugar, I highly recommend trying No Sugar Peanut Brittle. With its rich buttery flavor and satisfying crunch from the peanuts, it provides a wonderful alternative for those watching their sugar intake while still delivering on taste.