Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

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 (toasting optional)

Published: August 17, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients, you can prepare this treat in under 10 minutes.
No Baking Required: This recipe is completely no-bake, making it perfect for hot days or busy schedules.
Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or a casual snack at home.
Chewy and Nutty Delight: The combination of pecans and vanilla wafers creates a unique texture and flavor.
Family-Friendly: Kids love helping to make this fun and easy dessert!

Tools and Preparation

To make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor or rolling pin
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Wax paper or parchment paper
Knife for slicing

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: Makes crushing the vanilla wafers quick and easy for a fine crumb texture.
Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without mess.
Wax paper: Perfect for shaping the logs while keeping them neatly wrapped until serving.

Ingredients

This 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a chewy, nutty, no-bake Southern treat made with vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans!

For the Pecan Log

1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
3 ½ cups finely chopped pecans (Toasting optional, see notes)

Tools Needed

Food processor or rolling pin
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Wax paper or parchment paper
Knife for slicing

How to Make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Step 1: Crush the Vanilla Wafers

Food Processor Method: Add the vanilla wafers to a food processor and pulse until finely crushed into crumbs.
Manual Method: Place the wafers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until finely ground.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture starts coming together.

Step 3: Form the Logs

The mixture will be thick and sticky; if needed, use your hands to finish combining everything evenly.
Divide the mixture evenly in half.
Place each portion onto a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper.

Step 4: Shape the Logs

Using your hands, press and roll each portion into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter.

Step 5: Chill the Logs

Wrap tightly in wax paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the pecan logs and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy!

How to Serve Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Serving Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is simple and delightful. This sweet treat can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any gathering or as an everyday snack.

With Coffee or Tea

Pair with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon break.
Enjoy alongside a soothing herbal tea to complement the sweetness.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange slices on a dessert platter for parties.
Add colorful fruits or chocolate-covered treats for a beautiful presentation.

As a Gift

Wrap each log in festive paper to make wonderful homemade gifts.
Include a handwritten note for a personal touch that friends and family will appreciate.

At Holiday Gatherings

Serve during holiday celebrations as a nostalgic treat.
Combine with other holiday desserts for variety on the table.

With Ice Cream

Place slices on top of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra decadence.

How to Perfect Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

To get the best out of Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, consider these helpful tips. They ensure your pecan logs turn out perfectly every time.

Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your pecans are fresh and crunchy for the best flavor.
Chill thoroughly: Allow the logs to chill adequately in the fridge so they firm up nicely before slicing.
Customize your flavors: Experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.
Adjust the texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, reserve some chopped pecans to mix into the logs just before rolling them.
Cut with care: Use a sharp knife to slice evenly, ensuring each piece has a nice look and consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the pecan log.
Cheese Platter
Serve with assorted cheeses like brie or cheddar, providing savory contrast to the sweet log.
Mini Muffins
Offer mini blueberry or banana muffins on the side for added texture and flavor diversity.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of the pecan log, creating an indulgent treat.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit; it adds creaminess that complements the chewiness of the pecan log.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for guests who want an extra sweet touch when enjoying their pecan log.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is simple, but a few mistakes can hinder your results. Here are common pitfalls to avoid.

Using Whole Wafers: Not crushing the wafers finely can lead to an uneven texture. Make sure to blend them into fine crumbs for the best results.
Skipping Chilling Time: If you don’t refrigerate the logs long enough, they will be too soft to slice properly. Allow at least 2 hours for firming up.
Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing the pecans or sweetened condensed milk can throw off the balance. Always measure for consistent flavor and texture.
Ignoring Toasting Pecans: While optional, toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Consider lightly toasting them before adding for a richer taste.
Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too vigorously can make the mixture greasy. Combine just until everything is incorporated without overworking it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Wrap tightly in wax paper and then in plastic wrap before freezing.
Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm logs for about 5-10 minutes. This softens them slightly without melting.
Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds just until softened, not hot.
Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, turning occasionally for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log.

What is Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a no-bake Southern dessert made with vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! You can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different nuts to give it a personal touch.

How do I know when the logs are ready?

The logs should be firm after chilling for at least 2 hours. They should hold their shape when sliced.

Can I make this treat ahead of time?

Absolutely! Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a delightful treat that combines simplicity and flavor with its chewy texture and nutty goodness. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste. Give this quick no-bake dessert a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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