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Praline Crunch is one of those easy treats I bring to family events when I want a snack that vanishes almost instantly This sweet nutty cereal mix gets gobbled up before the main meal is even served and every time someone asks for the recipe
Every time I bake a batch the rich caramel aroma fills the kitchen and my kids beg to sneak a handful before it has cooled
Ingredients
- Crispix cereal: gives the base a light crunch that holds up to caramel use the freshest box possible for maximum crisp
- Salted pecan halves: add buttery richness and contrast beautifully with the sweet coating choose pecans that smell fresh and snap when broken
- Brown sugar: brings a deeper caramel flavor that white sugar just cannot match go for soft packed brown sugar with no clumps
- Corn syrup: keeps the coating glossy and chewy making every cluster perfect for munching look for a clear bottle with no crystals forming
- Butter: gives the praline a melt in your mouth texture pick unsalted if you want to adjust the salt level yourself
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and rounds out the sweet notes real vanilla is best for aroma
- Baking soda: lightens the caramel as it foams making a delicate coating that clings to every bite always check expiration for full effect
Instructions
- Make the Base:
- Pour the Crispix cereal and pecan halves into a large mixing bowl Stir gently to combine so cereal does not break
- Cook the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan on medium high heat combine brown sugar corn syrup and butter Stir constantly until butter melts fully and mixture starts to boil gently Keep stirring to avoid burning the sugar
- Activate and Finish Caramel:
- Take the pan off the heat Stir in the vanilla extract quickly then add baking soda The mixture will foam and rise This stage makes the caramel lighter and helps it cling to the cereal
- Coat the Crunch:
- Pour the hot foaming caramel over the cereal and pecans Use a silicone spatula to fold the mixture slowly and gently Make sure every piece gets evenly coated but do not crush the cereal
- Bake and Stir:
- Transfer coated cereal mixture into a large 9 by 13 inch baking pan Spread into an even layer Place into a 250 F oven Bake for 1 hour Take out to stir every 20 minutes This prevents sticking and ensures a crisp result
- Cool and Break:
- Turn the finished mix onto sheets of parchment or wax paper Let cool completely so the coating hardens Break into small bite size clusters with clean dry hands or a spatula
My favorite part is the buttery glazed pecans Sometimes I pick out the biggest clusters just for myself because those sweet nutty bites remind me of holiday gatherings filled with laughter
Storage Tips
Keep your praline crunch fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature It stays crisp for up to a week For longer storage freeze in heavy duty freezer bags and it will keep well for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the pecans for walnuts cashews or a mix of your favorite nuts If you do not have Crispix rice or corn Chex works too Maple syrup can be used in place of corn syrup for a deeper flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve this treat in paper cones at movie parties or tuck it into small bags for holiday gifts I love piling a bowl high on the dessert table at potlucks where it disappears in minutes
Cultural and Historical Context
Praline crunch takes its inspiration from classic Southern pralines but turns the rich nutty candy into an easy to snack mix Pralines have long been a sweet staple in Southern kitchens and this cereal version means everyone gets a bite
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in pumpkin pie spice for a warm autumn flair Mix chocolate chips or candies after the mix cools for a holiday version Add dried cranberries or cherries for a festive twist
Success Stories
I first tried Praline Crunch at a school bake sale and could not believe how quickly the container emptied Now we always make a double batch for family road trips because everyone claims it is their favorite snack
Freezer Meal Conversion
This recipe freezes like a dream Cool completely then bag portions flat in freezer safe bags Squeeze out any extra air and thaw at room temp If it softens a bit just pop in a low oven for a few minutes to bring back the crunch
Praline Crunch is the crowd favorite wherever it travels Make it once and you will be asked for the recipe every time
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different cereal?
Yes, you can use other crisp, unsweetened cereals if Crispix is unavailable. The texture may vary slightly.
- → Do I need salted pecans?
Salted pecans enhance the flavor, but unsalted pecans can be used. Add a pinch of salt if you’d like.
- → How do I store Praline Crunch?
After cooling, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for days, so you can prepare it in advance for events or snacking.
- → Why do I need to stir while baking?
Stirring ensures even coating and baking, so every bite is crisp and caramelized evenly.