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

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

October 8, 2025

Updated:

October 8, 2025

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This Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a delightful no-bake treat that combines the sweetness of vanilla wafers and condensed milk with the rich flavor of pecans. Perfect for any occasion, this simple dessert will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With its chewy texture and nutty taste, it’s an ideal addition to holiday gatherings or a sweet snack any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
No Baking Required: Skip the oven! This recipe allows you to create a tasty dessert without any baking involved.
Perfect for Sharing: Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log can be sliced into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to share with friends and family.
Customizable: Feel free to change things up by adding different nuts or flavorings to suit your tastes.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, birthday celebration, or just because, this treat fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, you’ll need a few basic tools. These will help ensure your preparation goes smoothly and your dessert turns out perfectly.

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: This tool makes crushing the vanilla wafers quick and easy, saving you time and effort.
Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Wax paper: It helps shape the pecan logs easily while keeping them from sticking.

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 Base

1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafers
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

For the Filling

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: Mix Ingredients Together

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

Step 4: Chill and Slice

Wrap tightly in wax paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
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 can enhance the enjoyment of this delightful treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening, here are some creative ways to serve this no-bake dessert.

With Coffee

Pairing your pecan log with freshly brewed coffee provides a warm contrast to the chewy texture and nutty flavor.

As a Sweet Snack

Enjoy slices of the pecan log as a quick snack during the day. They are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while providing a satisfying crunch.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange slices of Nana’s Pecan Log on a beautiful dessert platter alongside fruits or other treats for an inviting presentation at parties.

With Ice Cream

Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that balances flavors perfectly.

As Holiday Favors

Wrap individual slices in decorative wax paper and give them as holiday treats to friends and family. They make lovely homemade gifts!

How to Perfect Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Perfecting Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your logs turn out wonderfully every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your vanilla wafers and pecans are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Chill Thoroughly: Don’t skip the chilling time; it helps the logs firm up, making them easier to slice without crumbling.
Customize Your Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if you want a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Add Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra depth in flavor.
Keep Hands Moist: Lightly dampen your hands when rolling the logs to prevent sticking, making it easier to shape them evenly.
Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.

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

To complement the rich flavors of Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, consider serving it with these delightful side dishes. Each adds its own unique touch to your dessert experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pecan log.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy dressing in coleslaw provide balance against the chewy pecan log.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These delicious bites offer a luxurious pairing that enhances the overall treat experience.
Nutty Granola: A small serving of nutty granola can add an extra crunch while echoing the flavors found in the pecan log itself.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings richness that complements every slice beautifully.
Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes can offer creamy decadence alongside your nutty treat, creating an appealing dessert spread.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve with caramel sauce on top for those who enjoy an extra layer of sweetness on their dessert plate.

These side dishes will elevate your dining experience while ensuring that Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log remains the star of the show!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Not crushing the wafers finely enough – If the vanilla wafers aren’t crushed into fine crumbs, the mixture won’t hold together well. Use a food processor or roll them thoroughly in a bag to ensure proper consistency.
Skipping the chilling step – Failing to refrigerate the logs for at least two hours can result in a messy serving. This step is crucial for firming up the logs so they slice cleanly.
Using too many pecans – Overloading on pecans can make it hard for the mixture to stick together. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavor and texture.
Not rolling tightly enough – If you don’t roll the logs tightly, they may fall apart when sliced. Ensure you press firmly while shaping them into logs.
Ignoring optional toasting – Toasting pecans enhances their flavor significantly. Consider this step even if it’s not required; it adds a delicious depth to your Pecan Log.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keep for up to 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

Freezing Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 5 minutes on a baking sheet.
Microwave – Heat individual slices on low power for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log, you might have some questions. Here are some common inquiries:

What is Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is a no-bake dessert made with vanilla wafers, sweetened condensed milk, and chopped pecans, resulting in a chewy and nutty treat.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor profile.

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

The preparation time is only about 10 minutes, but don’t forget to chill it for at least 2 hours before serving.

What can I serve with Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log?

This delicious treat pairs well with coffee or tea. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit for added color and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Nana’s 3-Ingredient Pecan Log is an easy yet delightful dessert that brings a taste of Southern tradition to your table. Its versatility allows customization with different nuts or even adding chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!