Praline Crunch

Praline Crunch snack mix has crispy, crunchy, caramel-coated Crispix cereal and pecans studded throughout. It’s SO good, however, be warned: this stuff is seriously addictive!!

Everyone has that favorite party snack recipe. It could be a savory Chex Mix or a sweet-tooth’s go-to Puppy Chow. Although I’m a sucker for about any kind of little munchies, this Praline Crunch is at the top of my list!

My mom has been making this around the holidays for as long as I can remember. She’d make a big batch and fill ice cream buckets full for transport to holiday festivities.

This praline crunch has just a handful of ingredients and makes the perfect addition to holiday gatherings. Why do I keep saying holiday?!” Sure, it’s a great holiday treat, but why do we have to wait for a certain month to enjoy it?! Well, good news is, you don’t have to! Make it anytime…..I’m not judging! 😉

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Praline Crunch is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a delightful crunch in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to make and is sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it’s a holiday or just a casual get-together. Plus, the combination of caramel-coated cereal and pecans is simply irresistible!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Wax or parchment paper

Ingredients

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for the baking process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Crispix cereal and pecan halves, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
3. In a sizable saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir the mixture occasionally until it reaches a rolling boil, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The addition of these ingredients will infuse the caramel with a rich flavor and help achieve a perfect texture.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and pecans in the mixing bowl, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the ingredients until they are fully coated with the caramel glaze.
6. Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
7. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, stirring the mixture every 20 minutes to promote even baking and prevent burning.
8. Once the Praline Crunch is golden brown and crisp, remove it from the oven and transfer it onto wax or parchment paper to cool.
9. Allow the mixture to cool completely before breaking it into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures that the Praline Crunch maintains its crunchy texture and allows for easy serving.
10. Serve the Praline Crunch as a delightful snack or dessert option, perfect for any gathering or simply enjoying at home.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12

Tips for Success

• Make sure to stir the mixture every 20 minutes while baking to prevent any burning and to ensure even coating.
• Allow the mixture to cool completely on the wax or parchment paper to achieve the best crunchy texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the mix for an extra twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutritional values may vary, each serving is approximately:

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, you can substitute Crispix with other cereals like Chex for a different texture.

How long can I store Praline Crunch?

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would be great alternatives.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and indulging in this delicious Praline Crunch as much as I do. It’s a perfect treat to share with friends and family, or to enjoy all on your own. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Happy snacking!