This Praline Crunch is a sweet, buttery, and nutty snack that delivers an irresistible crunch in every bite. Crisp cereal and toasted pecans are coated in a light caramel glaze, then baked low and slow to create golden clusters that are perfectly crisp without being hard. It’s an easy, make-ahead treat that works just as well for everyday snacking as it does for holidays and gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make with simple pantry staples and no special equipment. The caramel sauce comes together quickly without a candy thermometer, yet delivers deep flavor and the perfect crunch. It’s versatile enough for parties, gift bags, or casual snacking, and the balance of sweet and salty keeps it from being overly rich. Once you try it, it’s hard not to keep coming back for more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 cups Crispix cereal
2 cups salted pecan halves
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Preheat the oven to 250°F. Prepare a large surface with parchment paper or wax paper for cooling the finished crunch.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Crispix cereal and salted pecan halves. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The caramel will foam slightly; this is normal and helps create a lighter, crunchier coating.

Pour the hot caramel mixture over the cereal and pecans. Using a spatula, gently fold until everything is evenly coated.

Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 1 hour, stirring gently every 20 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent clumping.

Remove from the oven and pour the mixture onto the prepared parchment or wax paper. Allow it to cool completely, then break into bite-sized clusters.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 to 12 servings, depending on portion size.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes.
Baking time is 60 minutes.
Cooling time is about 20 minutes.
Total time is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews, or use a mix of nuts for extra texture. Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor. For a more indulgent version, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled clusters. A light sprinkle of sea salt over the warm mixture also enhances the sweet-salty contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Store completely cooled Praline Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To keep it crisp, make sure no moisture gets into the container.

This snack also freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating is not necessary, but if the crunch loses some crispness, place it in a 250°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes and let it cool again before eating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal instead of Crispix?

Yes, similar cereals like corn or rice square cereals work well and provide a comparable crunch.

Do I need a candy thermometer for the caramel?

No, this recipe is designed to be simple. Bringing the mixture to a gentle boil is enough.

Why is baking soda important in this recipe?

Baking soda creates air bubbles in the caramel, making the coating lighter and crunchier once baked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead snack and stays fresh for several days when stored properly.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, but use two baking pans or a very large pan so the mixture bakes evenly.

How do I prevent the cereal from breaking?

Fold the caramel gently into the cereal using a spatula instead of stirring aggressively.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the brown sugar, but keep in mind it may affect the caramel texture.

What’s the best way to break it into clusters?

Let it cool completely, then use your hands to gently break it into pieces.

Can I add spices to the caramel?

Yes, cinnamon or other warm spices can be added for extra flavor.

Why does the caramel foam after adding baking soda?

The reaction introduces air into the caramel, which helps keep the final texture light and crisp.

Conclusion

Praline Crunch is the kind of recipe that delivers maximum reward for minimal effort. With its buttery caramel coating, crunchy cereal, and nutty flavor, it’s a treat that works for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re making it for guests, gifting, or just enjoying a cozy snack at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.

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