A stack of three squares of praline crunch featuring a golden caramel base mixed with crunchy nuts and oats, placed on a marble surface.

Praline Crunch

by

Praline Crunch is a sweet and buttery snack that combines the crispiness of cereal with the nutty richness of pecans, all coated in a caramel glaze. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, gifting, or simply enjoying as a snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Minimal effort with just a few simple steps.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, holiday gifts, or movie nights.
  • Crunchy and Sweet: A delightful combination of textures and flavors.
  • Customizable: Add other nuts or mix-ins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

  • 8 cups Crispix cereal
  • 2 cups pecan halves (salted preferred)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup corn syrup
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine Crispix cereal and pecans.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam slightly.
  5. Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and pecans. Gently stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
  6. Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
  7. Let the mixture cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

  • Nut-Free Version: Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely.
  • Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled crunch for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Mix-In Ideas: Add dried fruits, shredded coconut, or mini marshmallows after baking for variety.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cereal as a substitute for Crispix.
  • Spiced Crunch: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, any crisp, unsweetened cereal such as Chex or Cornflakes can work as a substitute.

What if I don’t have pecans?

You can use walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead, or leave the nuts out altogether.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Praline Crunch stays fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.

Is there a substitute for corn syrup?

You can use honey or golden syrup, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using a certified gluten-free cereal, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free.

Why do I need to stir every 15 minutes?

Stirring ensures that the caramel coating is evenly distributed and prevents clumping or burning.

Can I add spices to the caramel?

Yes, a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can add a warm, spiced flavor to the mix.

What’s the best way to cool the crunch?

Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to spread the mixture evenly.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Conclusion

Praline Crunch is the ultimate snack for those who love a sweet, nutty, and buttery treat. Its irresistible combination of crispy cereal and caramelized pecans makes it perfect for gatherings or as a delightful homemade gift. Try this recipe today and enjoy the addictive crunch of this easy-to-make treat!

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A stack of three squares of praline crunch featuring a golden caramel base mixed with crunchy nuts and oats, placed on a marble surface.

Praline Crunch

  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Praline Crunch is a buttery, caramel-coated snack with crispy cereal and pecans—perfect for parties, gifts, or a tasty treat at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups Crispix cereal
  • 2 cups pecan halves (salted preferred)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup corn syrup
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine Crispix cereal and pecans.
  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam slightly.
  • Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and pecans. Gently stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
  • Spread the coated mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
  • Let the mixture cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Praline Crunch