Praline Crunch

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Dive into a bowl of indulgent sweetness with this irresistible Praline Crunch recipe! A combination of crispy cereal and pecans coated in a buttery caramel glaze, this snack is the perfect treat for holidays, gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. With its addictive crunch and praline flavor, this treat will quickly become a family favorite.

The Sweet and Buttery Magic of Praline Crunch

Praline Crunch is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crispy cereal provides the perfect base for a rich caramel coating, while the pecans add a nutty depth and satisfying crunch. Once baked to golden perfection, the sweet aroma and irresistible taste make it hard to stop at just one handful.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack for a party or a simple homemade gift, this recipe delivers an easy-to-make treat that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Ingredients for Praline Crunch

To make this mouthwatering snack, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors.

• Rice or Corn Cereal – Use a crispy cereal like Chex for the best texture. It provides the perfect crunch to soak up the caramel coating.
• Pecans – Whole or halved pecans add a nutty, toasty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
• Unsalted Butter – The base of the caramel glaze, butter gives the snack its rich, buttery flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth, creating the caramel coating that binds the cereal and pecans together.
• Light Corn Syrup – Helps the caramel stay smooth and coats the cereal and pecans evenly.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the caramel glaze, adding a warm, aromatic note.
• Baking Soda – Helps the caramel glaze become lighter and easier to coat the cereal and pecans.

How to Make Praline Crunch

This recipe is surprisingly easy and straightforward, making it perfect even for beginners. Follow these simple steps to create a snack that’s as delicious as it looks.

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy cereal and pecans. Toss them together to ensure the pecans are evenly distributed.

Step 3:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4:

Remove the caramel mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up slightly—this is normal and creates the light, airy texture for the coating.

Step 5:

Immediately pour the caramel glaze over the cereal and pecans in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently stir, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.

Step 6:

Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure the caramel coating evenly crisps.

Step 7:

Remove the Praline Crunch from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces and store it in an airtight container. Enjoy!

How Long to Bake Praline Crunch

Baking Praline Crunch to perfection is all about timing and temperature. Here’s what you need to know:

• Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour.
• Stir the mixture every 15 minutes to ensure even coating and crispness.

The low, slow baking process allows the caramel glaze to crisp up perfectly without burning, while the cereal and pecans stay light and crunchy. You’ll know it’s ready when the coating is dry and golden, and the snack feels crisp to the touch when cooled.

How to Store Praline Crunch

Praline Crunch stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead snack or gift idea. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crisp texture.
• Freezing: Praline Crunch can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy its original crispness.

Tips for the Best Praline Crunch

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Praline Crunch turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh, high-quality pecans make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring every 15 minutes during baking ensures an even coating and prevents sticking or burning.
• Line Your Baking Sheet: Using parchment paper or a silicone mat makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the caramel from sticking.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: For variety, try adding shredded coconut, almonds, or even pretzels for a sweet-and-salty twist.
• Gift It: Pack Praline Crunch into decorative bags or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s sure to impress.

Print