Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia and simplicity, Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is the perfect recipe for you! This chewy, nutty dessert brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. With just three easy ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip together—even on the busiest of weeknights. You’ll find that this no-bake Southern classic is a hit at parties and makes for a sweet surprise in lunchboxes.
What makes this pecan log so special? It’s not just the flavor; it’s the love that goes into making it. Whether you’re sharing it with friends during a casual get-together or enjoying it with family after dinner, each slice is packed with warmth and deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to make: With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this treat ready in a flash.
- Family-friendly: Kids love this sweet delight, making it a great addition to any family gathering or celebration.
- Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for busy schedules—just prepare in advance and let chill until serving time.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You probably have many of them in your pantry already. Here’s what you need to create Nana’s 3-Ingredient 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)
- 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 how flexible it is! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Add chocolate: Mix in mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
- Include dried fruit: Toss in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Experiment with nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if you prefer.
- Coat with coconut: Roll the logs in shredded coconut before chilling for a tropical flair.
How to Make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
Step 1: Crush the Vanilla Wafers
Start by preparing your vanilla wafers. If you have a food processor handy, add the wafers and pulse them until they reach fine crumbs. This step is important because the crushed wafers provide the base texture for our pecan log. If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry! Place the wafers in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin until they are finely ground.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your crushed vanilla wafers with the sweetened condensed milk and finely chopped pecans. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until the mixture begins to come together. It will be thick and sticky—don’t hesitate to use your hands to ensure everything is evenly mixed!
Step 3: Shape the Logs
Once your mixture is well combined, divide it evenly into two portions. Take each portion and place it onto a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper. Using your hands, gently press and roll each portion into a log shape about 2 inches in diameter. Make sure they are tightly packed so they hold their shape when chilled.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Wrap each log tightly in wax paper and refrigerate them for at least two hours until firm. This chilling step helps solidify the logs, making them easier to slice later on. Once chilled, unwrap them carefully and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Arrange those delightful slices on a serving platter, and voilà! You’re ready to enjoy every bite of your homemade pecan logs!
Pro Tips for Making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
Making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your sweet treat turns out perfectly every time!
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Choose Fresh Pecans: Using fresh, high-quality pecans enhances the flavor and texture of your log. Stale nuts can make the dessert taste lackluster.
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Crush Evenly: Whether you opt for a food processor or the manual method with a rolling pin, aim for an even crumb size. This ensures that every bite has a consistent texture and flavor.
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Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing the logs to set for at least 2 hours (or longer if possible) helps them firm up, making slicing easier and improving their overall structure.
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Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add a touch of creativity by mixing in chocolate chips or dried fruit. This can provide a delightful twist while keeping true to the original recipe’s simplicity.
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Wrap Tightly: When wrapping your logs in wax paper, make sure they are tightly sealed. This prevents air from getting in, which can help maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
How to Serve Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
Presenting your Nana’s Pecan Log can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some fun ideas on how to showcase this delicious Southern treat for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Garnishes
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pecan log.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the sliced logs can elevate their appearance and add an extra layer of sweetness.
Side Dishes
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Whipped Coconut Cream: This fluffy topping pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of the pecan log. Simply whip coconut cream until light and airy for a dairy-free alternative that complements your dessert.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh berries, citrus slices, or melon adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the pecan log. It’s also a great way to balance out flavors.
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Coffee or Herbal Tea: Serving your pecan logs with a warm beverage can enhance the cozy atmosphere. Consider brewing some rich coffee or herbal tea for your guests to sip alongside their treats.
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Ice Cream (Dairy-Free): For those who love dessert pairings, offering scoops of dairy-free ice cream will create an indulgent experience that everyone will enjoy.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need to present Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log beautifully while ensuring it tastes absolutely delicious! Enjoy every moment spent sharing this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or a sweet surprise throughout the week. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover pecan logs in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For best texture, slice only what you plan to serve, leaving the rest intact until needed.
Freezing
- Wrap each log tightly in wax paper and then cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped logs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
- These pecan logs are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
- If you prefer them slightly softer, let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log!
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?
Absolutely! While pecans provide a lovely flavor and texture, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely!
How long does Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log last in the fridge?
Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log vegan?
Yes! To create a vegan version, simply use a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative available at most grocery stores.
Is Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log suitable for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely! This dessert is a fantastic addition to any holiday spread and is guaranteed to impress your guests with its simple ingredients and delightful taste.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log as much as I do! This recipe carries warmth and nostalgia, making it not just a treat but also a wonderful way to create cherished memories. Whether it’s during the holidays or just because you’re craving something sweet, this no-bake delight is sure to please. Happy cooking!
Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log
Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, a delightful no-bake treat that promises to bring joy to any occasion. This simple yet satisfying dessert combines crushed vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and finely chopped pecans into a chewy and nutty candy that is perfect for family gatherings or as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes. With just three easy ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this Southern classic that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite additions, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Dive into the warmth and sweetness of this cherished recipe today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 ½ cups finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Crush the vanilla wafers until they are fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed wafers with sweetened condensed milk and chopped pecans; mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into two portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter using wax paper.
- Chill the logs in the refrigerator for at least two hours until firm; then slice into ¼-inch rounds for serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg