Praline Crunch is a delectable, crunchy treat that pairs the rich flavor of pralines with the satisfying crunch of cereal and pecans. This snack is perfect for parties, holiday gifting, or simply as a sweet indulgence. This recipe is easy to make and results in a batch of crispy, caramel-coated goodies that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups Crispix cereal (or any similar rice and corn cereal)
- 2 cups pecan halves (preferably salted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preparing your baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier. You may need to use two sheets if your mixture doesn’t fit on one.
2. Toast the Pecans
While the oven is heating, spread 2 cups of pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they become fragrant. Be sure to stir them occasionally to ensure even toasting. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool.
3. Cook the Praline Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, ½ cup corn syrup, and ½ cup unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil.
Allow the mixture to boil for 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir to ensure that the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup thickens. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in the praline coating.
4. Add Flavor Enhancers
Once the mixture has boiled, remove it from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon baking soda. The addition of baking soda will cause the mixture to foam up slightly, creating a lighter, more airy texture in the finished product. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the vanilla and baking soda.
5. Combine with Cereal and Pecans
In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 cups Crispix cereal and the cooled toasted pecans. Pour the hot praline mixture over the cereal and pecans. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir the mixture to coat the cereal and nuts evenly. Work quickly to ensure the mixture covers everything before it begins to harden.
6. Spread and Bake
Transfer the coated cereal mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through the baking time. Stirring helps ensure that all parts of the mixture get evenly toasted and coated.
7. Cool and Break Into Pieces
After baking, remove the sheet from the oven and allow the Praline Crunch to cool completely on the baking sheet. The mixture will be soft when hot but will harden as it cools. Once cooled, break the Praline Crunch into bite-sized pieces.
8. Storage Tips
Store your Praline Crunch in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crispy. It should stay good for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the Praline Crunch. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for several months. To enjoy, simply let it come to room temperature before serving.
Tips for Perfect Praline Crunch
- Pecan Toasting: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, but be careful not to over-toast them as they can become bitter. Keep a close eye on them during baking.
- Mixing Quickly: Work quickly when mixing the praline mixture with the cereal to ensure an even coating before the mixture begins to set.
- Even Coating: Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all cereal and nuts evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cooling: Let the Praline Crunch cool completely on the baking sheet to achieve the right texture. It will be easier to break into pieces once fully cooled.
Praline Crunch is a wonderfully addictive treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of pralines with the satisfying crunch of cereal and pecans. This recipe is simple yet yields a delicious snack that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings, gifting to friends and family, or enjoying on your own. The combination of sweet caramel and crunchy cereal creates a delightful snack that’s hard to resist. Enjoy making and eating this irresistible treat!
Feel free to adjust any details as needed to better fit your requirements
