Description
This irresistible Praline Crunch transforms simple pantry ingredients into a gourmet Southern treat with the perfect sweet-nutty balance. Toasted pecans enrobed in amber caramel create a candy with a delicate snap that’s simultaneously sophisticated and comforting. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or elevating desserts!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups raw pecan halves
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into tablespoons
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare Your Surface: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to create a landing zone for your sweet concoction.
- Toast the Pecans: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan halves for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and just beginning to brown. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Create the Caramel: Wipe out the same skillet and return to medium heat. Add the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir gently with a heatproof spatula until the butter melts and sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and let bubble gently without stirring for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture turns a beautiful deep amber color.
- Add the Magic: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam dramatically – embrace this chemical reaction! Quickly fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring every piece gets coated in the bubbly, caramelized goodness.
- Spread and Set: Pour the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread into an even layer about ¼-inch thick. Work quickly as the praline sets up fast!
- Cool and Break: Allow to cool completely at room temperature (approximately 30 minutes) until firm. Once set, break into irregular shards or bite-sized chunks with your hands.
Notes
- Store your Praline Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week – if it lasts that long!
- For a gourmet twist, consider adding a handful of mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the cooling praline before it fully sets.
- This sweet treat is incredibly versatile – enjoy it on its own as a snack, crumble over ice cream, mix into yogurt, or package in decorative jars for homemade gifts.
- The foaming reaction when adding baking soda is completely normal and creates the perfect texture – don’t be alarmed by the dramatic bubbling!
- For best results, work quickly once the caramel reaches amber color, as the mixture will continue cooking from residual heat and can burn if left too long.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 78mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Praline Crunch, Candied Pecans, Southern Candy, Caramelized Pecans, Homemade Brittle, Pecan Praline, Gift-Worthy Treats