Praline Crunch

Introduction

When it comes to sweet and crunchy treats, Praline Crunch is a showstopper. This recipe has become a family favorite in my home, and it’s easy to see why. It combines the crispy texture of Crispix cereal with the rich, caramelized flavor of a praline coating, all mixed with salted pecans for the perfect balance of sweetness and savory. Whether you’re making it for a party or just for a treat, this snack will have everyone coming back for more.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time it’s met with rave reviews. The best part is how simple and quick it is to prepare. The praline coating is what truly sets this snack apart—it’s smooth, sticky, and packs a punch of caramel flavor that makes every bite irresistible. My family loves it, my friends can’t stop snacking on it, and I always get requests for the recipe.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into how you can make this addictive Praline Crunch at home!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Mix Cereal and Pecans: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Crispix cereal and pecan halves. Set aside.
3. Make the Praline Coating: In a large saucepan, add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a boil. Once it begins to boil, remove the pan from heat.
4. Add Flavoring: Stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam, so be careful! Stir it well until the mixture is smooth and foamy.
5. Coat the Cereal: Pour the praline mixture over the Crispix cereal and pecans. Stir gently to ensure the coating evenly coats every piece.
6. Bake: Spread the coated cereal and pecan mixture into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes to ensure even coating and to prevent burning. The goal is for the mixture to bake slowly, allowing the caramel coating to set perfectly.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baking is complete, spread the mixture onto wax or parchment paper to cool completely. Once cooled, break the praline crunch into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!

This Praline Crunch is seriously addictive, with each bite delivering a perfect balance of crunchy, nutty, and caramelized goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and one batch never seems to last long enough to store!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1/12th of the recipe
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 105mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve Praline Crunch in a large bowl as a snack for gatherings or parties.
• Package it in small bags or containers for homemade gifts.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
• Keep it in a serving dish for easy access during movie night or family time.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pecans and crisp cereal will ensure the best texture and flavor.
2. Stir Gently: When mixing the praline coating with the cereal, stir gently to avoid breaking the cereal.
3. Watch the Oven: Make sure to stir the mixture every 20 minutes while baking to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
4. Customize the Nuts: While pecans are traditional, you can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles.
5. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the praline mixture to give it a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Praline Crunch: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled praline crunch for an extra layer of decadence.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip the nuts and replace them with extra cereal for a crunchy, nut-free snack.
• Spicy Praline Crunch: Add a touch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the coating mixture for a sweet and spicy version.
• Candied Fruit: Add dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins to the mixture to make it even more festive.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Praline Crunch with a hot drink like coffee, tea, or even hot cocoa.
• Serve it at your next party as a sweet snack alongside other finger foods like chips and dip.
• Pack it in gift bags for friends and family during the holidays—it’s a perfect homemade gift!
• Use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for an extra treat.
• Serve it on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and fruits for a crunchy, sweet contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store Praline Crunch in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep it fresh. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make it ahead of time, Praline Crunch can be stored in the freezer. Place the cooled snack in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of cereal instead of Crispix?
   Yes, you can substitute Crispix with other cereals like Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or even Cheerios for a different texture.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free butter or margarine and ensure the vanilla extract is alcohol-free to keep it dairy-free.
3. Can I use unsalted pecans instead of salted?
   Yes, you can, but you might want to add a pinch of salt to the praline mixture to compensate for the lack of salt in the nuts.
4. Is there an alternative to corn syrup?
   Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for corn syrup, but the flavor will be slightly different.
5. Can I double this recipe?
   Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking pan and increase the baking time slightly if needed.
6. Can I add other spices to the praline coating?
   Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice can be added to the mixture for a seasonal flavor.
7. How can I tell when the praline coating is ready?
   The praline mixture should be bubbly and slightly thicker after boiling. Stir in the baking soda, and it will foam up, signaling it’s ready to coat the cereal.
8. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, this snack can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
9. Can I make this without using an oven?
   While baking helps set the praline coating, you can try using a slow cooker to dry the mixture, though the texture may be different.
10. Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
    Yes, walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work great in this recipe, giving it a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Praline Crunch is the perfect snack for those who love a sweet, crunchy, and nutty treat. Whether you’re looking for a new go-to snack for parties, a homemade gift idea, or just something to munch on while relaxing at home, this recipe will not disappoint. It’s simple to make, and with its irresistible praline coating, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every caramelized, crunchy bite!