1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine cereal and pecans. Set aside.
3. Make the Caramel Glaze
In a saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, salt, and baking soda (the mixture will bubble up).
4. Coat the Mix
Pour the hot caramel over the cereal and pecans. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly.
5. Bake Until Crispy
Spread mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent clumping.
6. Cool & Break Apart
Remove from oven and let cool completely. Break into clusters and store in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the baking soda – It lightens the caramel and makes the coating crispier.
- Use a big bowl – Stirring is easier if you’ve got plenty of room.
- Keep it moving – Stir during baking to coat evenly and avoid big sticky clumps.
- Make it festive – Toss in red and green M&Ms for a holiday version.
Fun Variations
- Salted Caramel Crunch – Add flaky sea salt before cooling.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Pumpkin Spice Crunch – Stir 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice into the caramel.
- S’mores Crunch – Add mini marshmallows and chocolate chips after baking.
Serving Ideas
- Snack mix for parties – Place in big bowls for easy grabbing.
- Holiday gifts – Package in mason jars or festive bags.
- Topping – Sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt for extra crunch.
- Movie night treat – Swap out popcorn for this sweet, nutty mix.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Praline Crunch is one of those recipes that’s simple but unforgettable. It’s sweet, buttery, crunchy, and nutty—everything you want in a snack. It’s easy to double for a crowd and keeps well, making it a go-to for holidays, game days, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes.
It’s proof that the best recipes are often the simplest—and the ones you can’t stop eating.
Final Thought: If you’re looking for a snack that’s crunchy, caramel-coated, and full of praline goodness, this Praline Crunch is it. Sweet, nutty, and dangerously addictive—it’s a Southern classic you’ll want to make again and again.