| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (100 g), packed | |
| Corn syrup | ¼ cup (60 ml) | Light or dark |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Pecans | 2 cups (about 200 g) | Chopped or halves |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add the Pecans and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and pecans until the nuts are well coated.
4. Add the Baking Soda
Sprinkle the baking soda over the mixture and stir quickly. The mixture will bubble and foam—this is normal and helps create the crunchy texture.
5. Spread and Bake
Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Cool and Break
Let the praline crunch cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break it into pieces.
Pro Tips for the Best Praline Crunch
Stir Constantly: Keep stirring while making the caramel to prevent burning.
Don't Overbake: The praline crunch will continue to darken as it cools.
Add a Little Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a lovely sweet-salty balance.
Store Properly: Store in an airtight container to maintain its crunch.
Delicious Variations
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Praline Crunch | Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling. |
| Coconut Praline Crunch | Add ½ cup of shredded coconut. |
| Spiced Praline Crunch | Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. |
| Mixed Nut Praline Crunch | Use a mix of pecans, almonds, and walnuts. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store praline crunch?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze praline crunch?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Almonds, walnuts, or pistachios work beautifully.
What should I serve with this?
It's wonderful on its own, sprinkled over ice cream, or used as a topping for cakes and pies.
A Gentle Reminder
This Praline Crunch is a beautiful reminder that the simplest treats often bring the greatest joy. It's sweet, crunchy, and absolutely delightful.
