Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Recipe

Nana’s Dreamy 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Recipe: Sweet Family Magic

A delightful Nana’s pecan log that captures childhood memories with just three simple ingredients.

Sweet nostalgia comes alive in this classic treat that requires minimal effort.

Pecans provide a delicious crunch against smooth, creamy layers of goodness.

Creating something magical in your kitchen without complicated techniques.

Each bite promises a delectable experience that connects generations through shared culinary joy.

The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for baking novices and seasoned pros alike.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly these logs come together, making them an ideal dessert for spontaneous gatherings or quiet moments of indulgence.

Try this recipe and rediscover the charm of homemade sweets that warm hearts and spark conversations.

What Makes Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log So Easy

  • Quick and Simple Preparation: This recipe requires only three ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners or busy home cooks who want a delightful treat without complex techniques.
  • Irresistible Texture Contrast: Experience a heavenly combination of soft, creamy marshmallow, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans that create an exciting sensory experience in every single bite.
  • No-Bake Sweet Indulgence: Enjoy a delectable dessert that doesn't require an oven, saving time and reducing kitchen heat while delivering a rich, satisfying flavor profile that feels like a special homemade treat.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: This pecan log works wonderfully for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or casual family desserts, offering an elegant yet approachable sweet that appeals to both kids and adults with its playful texture and classic flavor combination.

Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Ingredients List

Main Sweet Components:
  • Marshmallow Cream: Soft, fluffy base that creates the signature creamy center of the log.
  • Caramel Candies: Sweet, golden coating that provides rich flavor and helps bind pecans.
Nut Coating:
  • Pecans: Crunchy, nutty topping that adds texture and classic Southern-style flavor. Opt for fresh, crisp pecans without any rancid smell.
Preparation Surface:
  • Parchment Paper, Silicone Baking Mat: Non-stick surface for easy handling and clean workspace. Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup simple.

How To Put Together Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Step 1: Prep the Workspace

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Spread chopped pecans on a flat plate, creating a nutty landing zone for your delicious creation.

Step 2: Craft the Marshmallow Core

Take marshmallow cream and gently shape it into a long, smooth log on parchment paper. Slide the log into the freezer for a quick 15-minute chill session to help it firm up perfectly.

Step 3: Transform Caramel

Unwrap caramel candies and melt them in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Stir continuously until the caramel becomes silky and smooth. Let it cool just enough to stay warm but not scalding.

Step 4: Embrace the Caramel Coating

Rescue the marshmallow log from its freezer retreat. Using a spatula or your hands, lovingly drench the log in warm caramel. Move swiftly to ensure an even, golden-brown coverage.

Step 5: Nutty Transformation

Instantly roll the caramel-covered log through the waiting pecan landscape. Press gently, helping each pecan cling to the sweet surface.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Return the nutty marvel to the parchment-lined sheet. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes until completely set. Slice into delectable inch-thick rounds ready to delight taste buds.

Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness and enjoyment.

Helpful Ideas For Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

  • Freeze for Firmness: Chilling the marshmallow log before coating helps prevent it from falling apart during the caramel and pecan application, ensuring a clean and professional-looking treat.
  • Work Quickly with Caramel: Keep the caramel at the right temperature to prevent it from hardening too fast or melting the marshmallow center. Stir constantly and work in a smooth, swift motion.
  • Prevent Sticky Hands: Lightly coat your hands with cooking spray or butter when shaping and handling the marshmallow log to reduce sticking and make the process smoother.
  • Customize Nut Options: Swap pecans with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or a mixed nut blend to create unique flavor variations and add personal flair to the classic recipe.
  • Store Properly: Wrap the pecan log in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring maximum freshness and preventing the caramel from becoming too soft.

Save And Reheat Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Right

  • Refrigerate: Wrap the pecan log tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze: Protect the log by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving its delicious texture and flavor.
  • Thaw Gently: Move frozen pecan log to the refrigerator and let it defrost slowly overnight. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent moisture loss.
  • Serve Chilled: For best taste and texture, enjoy the pecan log directly from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier.

Pairing Ideas For Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

  • Craft Complementary Beverage Pairings: Serve this sweet pecan log with a rich, smooth coffee or creamy hot chocolate to balance the caramel's sweetness and enhance the nutty pecan flavor.
  • Elevate Dessert Presentation: Accompany the pecan log with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a luxurious texture contrast and add a cool, creamy element.
  • Match Flavor Intensity: Pair with a dessert wine like port or a caramel-noted bourbon to complement the log's deep caramel and pecan profile, creating a harmonious tasting experience.
  • Texture Enhancing Companions: Serve alongside crisp shortbread cookies or buttery almond biscotti to provide a crunchy counterpoint to the log's soft, chewy marshmallow and caramel texture.

New Takes On Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

  • Nutty Coconut Crunch: Replace pecans with toasted coconut flakes and add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor complexity.
  • Chocolate Drizzle Delight: After coating with caramel and pecans, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the log for a rich, decadent finish.
  • Fruity Berry Blast: Mix dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries into the pecan coating for a tangy, colorful update to the classic recipe.
  • Salted Caramel Adventure: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel coating before rolling in pecans to enhance the sweet-savory contrast.

Common Questions On Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

  • What makes this pecan log special?

This pecan log is a nostalgic treat with just three ingredients, making it super easy to create a delicious homemade candy that looks impressive and tastes amazing.

  • Can I use homemade marshmallow cream instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade marshmallow cream works great! Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when you form the log.

  • How do I prevent the caramel from burning when melting?

Melt the caramel slowly and stir frequently. Use either a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler, and keep the heat low and controlled to avoid scorching.

  • What if my caramel is too hot when coating the log?

Let the caramel cool for a few minutes. You want it warm enough to spread but not so hot that it melts the frozen marshmallow center. Test the temperature by touching it gently before coating.

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Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Recipe

Nanas 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Recipe


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4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy nanas 3-ingredient pecan log delights sweet tooths with classic Southern charm. Rich marshmallow, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans blend into a nostalgic dessert perfect for sharing with loved ones.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250 grams) finely chopped pecans
  • 1 bag (11 ounces / 300 grams) caramel candies, unwrapped

Binding/Filling Ingredients:

  • 1 jar (7 ounces / 200 grams) marshmallow cream (marshmallow fluff)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the workstation by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and arranging chopped pecans on a flat surface for convenient coating.
  2. Carefully transfer marshmallow cream onto parchment paper, gently molding it into an elongated cylindrical shape approximately 8-10 inches in length.
  3. Temporarily place the marshmallow log in the freezer, allowing it to solidify and maintain its structural integrity for approximately 15-20 minutes.
  4. Utilize a microwave-safe container or double boiler to gradually melt caramel candies, stirring consistently to prevent scorching and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
  5. Allow the caramel to cool slightly, ensuring it remains warm enough to spread but not hot enough to compromise the marshmallow log’s structure.
  6. Extract the marshmallow log from the freezer and swiftly enrobe it with the melted caramel using a spatula or clean hands, ensuring an even, complete coverage.
  7. Immediately transfer the caramel-coated log into the prepared chopped pecans, applying gentle pressure to secure the nuts uniformly across the surface.
  8. Carefully position the pecan-encrusted log onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to enable complete setting.
  9. Once thoroughly chilled, slice the log into uniform rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick, ready for serving and enjoying.

Notes

  • Freezing the marshmallow log helps maintain its shape and prevents it from melting when coated with warm caramel, ensuring a clean and professional-looking dessert.
  • Use room temperature caramel for smoother coating, preventing the marshmallow log from breaking or losing its form during the dipping process.
  • For a gluten-free version, double-check that your caramel candies are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten ingredients.
  • Experiment with different nut variations like toasted almonds or chopped walnuts to create unique flavor profiles and add personal flair to the classic pecan log.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 193
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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