Name: Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 3 ½ cups finely chopped pecans

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back warm memories of family gatherings, you’re in the right place! Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a cherished recipe that’s easy to whip up and always a hit at holidays or casual get-togethers. With just three simple ingredients, this chewy, nutty Southern delight is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among friends and family alike!

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something sweet, this no-bake dessert will satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive right into why this recipe is such a gem!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create these delicious logs without turning on the oven!
Family-Friendly Delight: Kids love helping out with mixing and rolling; it’s a fun activity that everyone can enjoy together.
Make-Ahead Magic: These logs can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a stress-free option for any occasion.
Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of crunchy pecans and creamy sweetness will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple with some wholesome ingredients! For Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, you’ll need just three staples that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what to gather:

Ingredients:
– 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers
– 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
– 3 ½ cups finely chopped pecans (Toasting optional, see notes)
– Food processor or rolling pin
– Large mixing bowl
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Wax paper or parchment paper
– Knife for slicing

Variations

One of the best things about Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is its versatility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

Add chocolate chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist.
Mix in dried fruits: A handful of raisins or cranberries will add a chewy texture and fruity flavor.
Experiment with nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try using walnuts or almonds instead.
Roll in coconut flakes: For an added tropical flair, roll the logs in shredded coconut before refrigerating.

How to Make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Step 1: Crush the Vanilla Wafers

Start by crushing those vanilla wafers. If you have a food processor, toss them in and pulse until they turn into fine crumbs. This step creates the base of our pecan log. If you prefer a manual approach, place the wafers in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. Both methods work great—just find what suits you!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with sweetened condensed milk and finely chopped pecans. This mixture is what makes our dessert so delightful! Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together until it starts to come together. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if needed—it’s part of the fun!

Step 3: Shape the Logs

Once everything is mixed well, divide your mixture evenly into two portions. Place each portion onto wax paper or parchment paper. Now comes the exciting part—using your hands, press and roll each portion into a log shape about 2 inches in diameter. This is where your logs begin to take form!

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Wrap each log tightly in wax paper and pop them into the refrigerator for at least two hours until they firm up nicely. Once chilled, unwrap them and slice into about ¼-inch rounds. Arrange these beautiful slices on a serving platter and prepare yourself for all the compliments headed your way!

And there you have it! Enjoy sharing Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log with friends and family—you might even want to keep some hidden away for yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

There’s nothing quite like a little kitchen wisdom to make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable! Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your pecan logs turn out perfectly every time.

Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh vanilla wafers and pecans will enhance the flavor of your pecan log, making it taste even more delightful.
Crush evenly: Whether you use a food processor or a rolling pin, aim for a fine crumb consistency. This will help the mixture bind better and create a smoother texture in the final product.
Don’t skip chilling: Refrigerating the logs is crucial for achieving the right firmness. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes slicing much easier.
Experiment with textures: If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider lightly toasting the pecans before chopping them. This adds depth to the flavor and a delightful contrast in texture.
Wrap tightly: When wrapping your logs in wax paper, ensure they are well-sealed. This keeps them fresh longer in the refrigerator and prevents them from drying out.

How to Serve Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Serving Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is all about presentation! These delightful treats can be enjoyed on their own or elevated with simple garnishes that complement their sweet, nutty flavor.

Garnishes

Chopped Chocolate Drizzle: A quick drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds an elegant touch and enhances the dessert’s sweetness.
Fresh Berries: Adding a few fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side not only adds color but also brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pecan log.
Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors, creating a wonderful sweet-and-salty balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Side Dishes

Coconut Cream Pie: The creamy coconut filling pairs beautifully with the nutty pecan log, making for a rich dessert spread that guests will love.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser that balances out the sweetness of the pecan logs.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving slices of pecan log alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream creates a classic combination that is sure to please any crowd.
Coffee or Herbal Tea: Offering coffee or herbal tea as beverages complements the sweetness of the pecan log while providing warmth—perfect for gatherings!

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is not just easy to make; it’s also versatile enough to fit into any dessert setting. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make these logs ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pecan logs wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper.
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each log tightly in wax paper, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag.
Label the bag with the date and contents.
They can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

No reheating is needed for this no-bake dessert!
Simply slice and serve straight from the fridge or let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log that might help you out!

Can I use a different nut instead of pecans for Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the texture.

How long does it take to make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

The total time is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, with just 10 minutes of active prep time. The rest is chilling time in the fridge!

Can Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.

What makes Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log special?

This recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors, creating a nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for sharing during holidays or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log as much as I do! This recipe brings back fond memories and offers a delightful way to share sweetness with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something tasty, these logs are sure to please. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy!