Description
Praline Crunch is a sweet and crunchy snack mix combining Crispix cereal and salted pecans coated in a rich caramel glaze. Baked to perfection at a low temperature, this treat offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it perfect for parties, gifting, or an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Snack Mix
- 8 cups Crispix cereal
- 2 cups pecan halves (salted)
Caramel Coating
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) to prepare for slow baking the mixture.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the Crispix cereal and salted pecan halves evenly.
- Make the caramel mixture: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a boil to dissolve the sugar and melt the butter.
- Add flavoring and leavening: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. This will add flavor and create a slight foaming effect for a lighter texture.
- Coat the cereal mixture: Pour the warm caramel sauce over the cereal and pecans. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the caramel.
- Prepare for baking: Spread the coated cereal mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking pan to allow for even heat distribution.
- Bake the mixture: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Stir the mixture every 20 minutes to prevent burning and to promote even caramelization.
- Cool down: After baking, pour the Praline Crunch onto wax or parchment paper, spreading it out to cool and harden.
- Serve: Once cooled completely, break the praline crunch into pieces and enjoy your sweet and crunchy snack.
Notes
- Use salted pecans for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavor; if using unsalted, consider adding a pinch of salt.
- Stirring every 20 minutes during baking is crucial to avoid burning and ensure even coating.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunchiness for up to one week.
- For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with additional cereal or seeds.
- If corn syrup is unavailable, light molasses or honey can be a substitute, but flavor and texture may vary.