Praline Crunch Recipe
This Praline Crunch Recipe offers a perfect blend of crunchy caramelized pecans coated in a buttery, sweet caramel. Easy to make with simple pantry staples and ready in under 30 minutes, these pralines are versatile treats you can enjoy as candy or use as toppings for desserts. Customizable with different nuts, spices, or chocolate, they’re a delightful, gluten-free indulgence perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 20 praline clusters 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Core Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare Your Pans: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure your pralines don’t stick after cooking. Set aside.
- Toast the Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant to boost their nutty flavor before mixing with sugar.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and cream. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a golden caramel consistency, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add Pecans and Flavorings: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Form the Praline Clusters: Using two spoons, drop small clusters of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow them to cool completely and harden before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh nuts for better texture and richer flavor.
- Constant stirring keeps the sugar from burning and ensures smooth caramel.
- Use a candy thermometer and aim for 235–240°F (113–116°C) for perfect caramelization.
- Work quickly as the mixture hardens fast once caramelized.
- Store pralines in an airtight container away from humidity to maintain crunchiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster (about 20g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: praline, praline crunch, caramelized pecans, nut candy, easy dessert, gluten free candy, sweet snack, homemade pralines