Irresistible Praline Crunch

This easy praline crunch brings warm, caramelly pecans to life with just a few pantry staples and a quick bake. It’s perfect for snack bowls, gifting in mason jars, or sprinkling over ice cream and yogurt. If you enjoy playful sweet crunches, this small-batch treat will become a go-to in your rotation. Try pairing it with a weekend brunch plate or a homemade dessert to add a cozy, crunchy finish. Explore other crunchy ideas like breakfast crunchwrap for more inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This praline crunch is ideal when you want big flavor with minimal fuss. With only five ingredients and one pan to clean, it’s approachable for novice bakers yet satisfying for seasoned cooks. The short bake time concentrates the sugar into a glossy coating that clings to each pecan, so every bite is deeply toasted and sweet. It’s also flexible for gifting or entertaining because it travels well and holds its crunch at room temperature. For festive movie nights, consider using it in a popcorn mix similar to this holiday popcorn crunch idea to add texture and sweetness.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a buttery brown sugar caramel that crisps up around whole pecans into clusters that snap pleasingly when you bite. The vanilla brightens the caramel notes and the salt cuts the sweetness, giving a balanced, sophisticated finish. As the pecans cool, the coating hardens into shards and chunks that are both chewy at first and then satisfyingly crisp. The toasted pecan flavor deepens in the oven, releasing nutty oils that elevate the overall aroma. This combination makes the praline crunch versatile enough to top warm puddings, frozen desserts, or simply to nibble straight from a jar.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a large bowl, combine the pecan halves with the sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before breaking into clusters.
8. Enjoy as a snack or use as a dessert topping.

Tips for Best Results

Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the cleanest flavor; older nuts can taste flat or rancid. Keep a close eye during the final minutes in the oven because the sugar can go from golden to burnt quickly. Stirring once or twice while baking helps each piece brown evenly and prevents scorching. Let the mixture cool fully on the baking sheet so the caramel has time to harden into crisp clusters rather than sticky clumps. If you want extra shine, gently toss the warm pecans with a teaspoon of melted butter before baking.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store the cooled praline crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain maximum crunch. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months and thaw at room temperature before serving. This snack is great to make ahead for parties since it requires no reheating and keeps its texture well. If humidity is high where you live, consider refrigerating to avoid softening, but allow it to come back to room temperature for best flavor.

Final Thought

This small-batch praline crunch is proof that a few simple ingredients can create something decadent and versatile. It adds warmth and caramelized depth to desserts, breakfast bowls, and snack plates with very little effort. Once you’ve tasted the balance of sweet, salty, and nutty, you’ll find yourself reaching for it to finish many dishes.

Conclusion

For a similar spin and extra inspiration, check out this classic take on praline crunch at Praline Crunch – Plain Chicken.

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