Introduction
Praline crunch is one of those simple, old-fashioned treats that disappears almost as quickly as it is made. Sweet, buttery, and packed with crunch, it combines caramelized sugar with cereal and nuts to create a snack or dessert that feels nostalgic and comforting. I first made praline crunch for a holiday gathering, thinking it would be a small nibble alongside other desserts, but it quickly became the most requested recipe of the evening. What makes praline crunch so appealing is its balance of textures and flavors. The crisp cereal, toasted pecans, and glossy praline coating come together beautifully without requiring complicated steps or special equipment. This recipe is easy to prepare, stores well, and works just as well for gifting as it does for casual snacking.
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Praline Crunch – Sweet, Buttery, and Irresistibly Addictive
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and crunchy praline crunch made with caramelized pecans and crisp cereal, perfect as a snack, topping, or giftable treat.
Ingredients
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine cereal and pecans.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
- Bring mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Immediately pour caramel mixture over cereal and pecans; stir to coat evenly.
- Spread mixture evenly onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Break into clusters and serve or store.
Notes
- Allow to cool fully for maximum crunch.
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Great as an ice cream or yogurt topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to make and requires minimal ingredients. It delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch without being overly heavy. Praline crunch is versatile enough to serve as a snack, dessert topping, or edible gift. It also keeps well, making it ideal for make-ahead occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Corn cereal
Corn cereal provides the light, crisp base that holds up well under the praline coating without becoming soggy.
Pecan halves
Pecans add rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the caramelized coating.
Brown sugar
Brown sugar creates the deep, caramel-like sweetness that defines praline crunch.
Butter
Butter adds richness and helps form the glossy praline coating that binds everything together.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds warmth to the overall flavor.
Salt
Salt balances the sweetness and sharpens the caramel notes.
Baking soda
Baking soda lightens the praline coating slightly, giving it a delicate crunch rather than a hard candy texture.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the corn cereal and pecans evenly across the prepared baking sheet, mixing lightly so the nuts are well distributed.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and salt, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda, mixing quickly as the mixture foams slightly.
Immediately pour the hot praline mixture over the cereal and pecans. Use a spatula to gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Bake, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is dry, golden, and crisp. Allow it to cool completely before breaking into clusters and serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 to 10 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, baking time is 30 minutes, and cooling time is 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store praline crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep it away from humidity to maintain its crisp texture. Reheating is not necessary.
Variations and Customizations
You can substitute almonds or walnuts for pecans if desired. For a spiced version, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the praline mixture. I have also mixed in pretzels after baking for a sweet-and-salty twist, which added extra crunch and contrast. Drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled praline crunch creates a more dessert-like version that works well for special occasions.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Praline crunch is an indulgent treat made with sugar, butter, and nuts. While it is calorie-dense, small portions are very satisfying. Nuts contribute healthy fats, making it a slightly more balanced sweet snack.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Stir While Baking
Stirring during baking ensures even coating and prevents burning.
Cool Completely
Allow the mixture to cool fully so it crisps properly.
Use Fresh Nuts
Fresh pecans provide the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make praline crunch ahead of time?
Yes, it stores very well and is ideal for making in advance.
Why add baking soda?
Baking soda creates a lighter, more brittle praline coating.
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes, rice or wheat cereal works well.
How do I prevent sticking?
Use parchment paper and stir occasionally while baking.
Can I make this on the stovetop only?
The oven method gives the best texture, but stovetop versions are possible.
Is praline crunch gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cereal to adapt the recipe.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Reducing sugar will affect the praline texture.
Why is my praline crunch chewy?
It may need more baking or cooling time.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, add dried fruit after baking and cooling.
Is this suitable for gifting?
Yes, it travels and stores exceptionally well.
Conclusion
Praline crunch is a simple yet irresistible treat that delivers big flavor with very little effort. Its sweet, buttery crunch makes it perfect for snacking, sharing, or gifting, and once you try it, it is almost guaranteed to become a regular favorite.
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