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When the holiday season rolls around, I can’t help but think of the delightful aromas wafting from my Nana’s kitchen. There’s something incredibly special about gathering with family, sharing laughter and stories, and indulging in homemade treats that remind us of our roots. One recipe that never fails to bring me joy—and surely would do the same for anyone— is Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log. This no-bake wonder combines the sweet crunch of pecans with rich vanilla wafers and creamy sweetened condensed milk to create an effortlessly delicious dessert that embodies Southern charm.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it requires just three ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for those bustling holiday festivities. With the option to add your personal touch—be it cherries, chocolate chips, or even graham crackers as a base—you can easily adapt it to fit your taste. So, why not skip the drive-thru this season and dive into something homemade that will warm hearts and satisfy cravings? Join me in bringing a little nostalgia to the table with this cherished family recipe!

Why will you love Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

Simplicity at its Finest: This easy no-bake dessert requires just three ingredients, making it a breeze for anyone to whip up, regardless of cooking skill!
Rich, Nutty Goodness: The combination of pecans and sweetened condensed milk creates a delightful richness that no one can resist.
Versatile Creativity: Feel free to customize with additions like chocolate chips or dried fruit to suit your family’s tastes!
Quick Preparation: Ready in minutes and perfect for busy holiday schedules, you can spend more time enjoying the festivities with loved ones.
Nostalgic Charm: Each bite takes you back to cherished family gatherings, evoking warm memories of laughter and love around the table.

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this delightful Southern dessert!

For the Base

Vanilla Wafer Cookies – These provide the sweetness and crisp foundation; graham crackers can be used as a tasty substitute.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – This creamy ingredient acts as a glue, binding everything together beautifully. No need for substitutions here!

For the Crunch

Pecans – Crunchy and flavorful, they bring a delightful texture; toasting them enhances their flavor, but if nuts aren’t your thing, peanuts can work too!

How to Make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix crushed vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans using a sturdy wooden spoon or your hands until they are well combined, creating a sticky mixture.
Form Logs: Divide the mixture in half and shape each portion into a log on a piece of wax paper. Aim for a size that fits comfortably on your serving platter.
Chill: Wrap each log tightly in wax paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until they firm up. This step is crucial for easier slicing later!
Serve: Once chilled and firm, remove the logs from the fridge. Slice them into your desired thickness and serve on a festive platter for all to enjoy!

Optional: Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the logs for an extra sweet touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

Create the perfect holiday ambiance by pairing this delightful treat with complementary side dishes and beverages.

Velvety Hot Cocoa: This warm, chocolatey drink adds a cozy touch, balancing the sweetness of the pecan log beautifully.
Rich Coffee: A rich cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the nutty flavors and makes for a delightful sweet contrast.
Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream lends a luxurious creaminess that perfectly complements the crunchy texture.
Fresh Berries: A side of vibrant, tart berries brightens the palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, dense pecan log.
Chocolate Fondue: For a fun, interactive dessert experience, serve with a chocolate fondue where guests can dip pieces of the pecan log.
Mini Cheesecakes: Individual mini cheesecakes bring a creamy delight that pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the pecan log.
Spirited Eggnog: Embrace the season with a glass of spiced eggnog. Its rich, creamy texture mirrors the log’s indulgence.
Nutty Granola: For a contrasting crunch, serve along with a bowl of nutty granola; the mixture of flavors will surprise and delight the taste buds.
Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over the pecan log can add a touch of sweetness while enhancing its nutty flavor.
Caramel Sauce: Pairing it with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping enhances the sweetness and adds a luxurious touch to every bite.

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your dessert experience with these exciting twists!

Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. You won’t miss a beat!
Chocolate Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. The chocolate and pecans create a heavenly combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Coconut Lover: Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist—it adds a chewy texture and complements the creamy milk beautifully. Don’t be afraid to embrace this tasty upgrade!
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cherries or cranberries for a burst of fruity flavor. This gives a lovely tartness that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the log.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, cozy flavor. This delightful hint of spice will elevate your holiday treat to a new level.
Graham Cracker Base: Swap out vanilla wafers for crushed graham crackers for a different take on the crunchy base. It adds a hint of honey note that pairs perfectly with the pecans.
Sweet & Salty: Mix in a handful of crushed pretzels for an unexpected salty crunch. It creates a delicious contrast that keeps your taste buds guessing!
Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in a scoop of creamy or crunchy peanut butter to bring in a nutty richness. The extra creaminess will make your pecan log even more indulgent—perfect for peanut butter lovers!

Expert Tips for Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Chop Pecans Finely: Ensure the pecans are finely chopped for even mixing and to achieve a better texture in your Pecan Log.
Use Your Hands: While a sturdy wooden spoon is helpful, using your hands may be necessary to fully combine the ingredients for the best consistency.
Chill Properly: Allow enough chilling time for the logs to firm up well. This step is crucial for easier slicing and a delightful final texture.
Customize with Care: If adding variations like chocolate chips or dried fruit, adjust the mixing process slightly to ensure they are evenly incorporated into the Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log.
Store Wisely: Wrap the logs tightly when storing in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

How to Store and Freeze Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Fridge: Wrap the Pecan Log tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 2 weeks. Avoid exposure to air to maintain its delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped logs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture before serving.
Slicing Tips: When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to slice the chilled log. If it’s been frozen, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for easier slicing.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log. Simply slice and serve chilled, paired with a hot beverage for a delightful treat.

Make Ahead Options

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is an ideal recipe for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to combine the crushed vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans, then shape them into logs on wax paper. Wrap each log tightly and refrigerate. This helps maintain their delicious flavor and chewy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just slice the logs into your preferred thickness. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log Recipe FAQs

What kind of vanilla wafers should I use?
You can use any brand of vanilla wafers, as they provide both sweetness and a crisp base for the Pecan Log. If you prefer, graham crackers can make a delightful substitute, offering a different but equally tasty flavor profile!

How should I store Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?
Wrap the Pecan Log tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This will help maintain its delightful texture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months—just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!

Can I freeze Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain texture. Thaw it in the refrigerator for about 6-8 hours, or overnight, before slicing and serving for the best results.

What if the mixture feels too dry?
If you find the mixture is too dry to hold together when forming logs, try adding a small amount of sweetened condensed milk—start with a tablespoon and mix well. Make sure your pecans are finely chopped and well incorporated, as this will help achieve the right consistency.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! While pecans are a main ingredient, if there are nut allergies, you can substitute with peanuts or skip nuts altogether. Always check ingredient labels for any potential allergens when preparing this recipe, especially for guests.

Can I add other ingredients to customize my Pecan Log?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative by adding mini chocolate chips, dried fruits like cherries or cranberries, or even coconut flakes! Just ensure that any additional ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture when you combine everything. Start with small amounts to gauge flavor and texture adjustments.