PRALINE CRUNCH


A Sweet & Salty Southern Treat with Toasted Pecans & Golden Caramel

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12-15 | Difficulty: Easy | Dietary Note: Vegetarian (Vegan option below)

Ingredients

(Professional Tip: Measure sticky ingredients like corn syrup with a spoon lightly coated in nonstick spray for easy release.)

  • 8 cups Crispix® cereal (crispy rice base for texture)
  • 2 cups pecan halves (salted, for nutty richness)
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (adds molasses depth)
  • ½ cup light corn syrup (creates a glossy caramel structure)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing pan)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (enhances warmth)
  • ½ tsp baking soda (aerates the caramel for crackle)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep Your Pan:
    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper. Spread Crispix cereal and pecans evenly in the pan.

  2. Cook the Caramel Coating:
    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter . Stir constantly until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then cook for 3 minutes (do not stir).

  3. Activate the Crunch:
    Remove from heat. Quickly whisk in vanilla and baking soda (the mixture will foam). Pour the caramel evenly over the cereal and pecans.

  4. Bake to Golden Perfection:
    Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes for even browning.

  5. Cool & Break:
    Let cool completely in the pan (2-3 hours). Once hardened, break into clusters or squares. Store in an airtight container.


 

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