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Praline Crunch

A magical recipe that delivers perfect crispy, crunchy texture with rich, nutty sweetness in just minutes. This buttery pecan praline candy works as a topping for ice cream, a mix-in for yogurt, a gift in a pretty jar, or eaten straight from the pan.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 95
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 tablespoons butter unsalted or salted depending on your preference
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 cup pecan pieces roughly chopped or halved
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Candy thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Tear off a piece of parchment paper and place it on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
  2. Add butter to your small saucepan over medium heat and melt completely until smooth.
  3. Pour the brown sugar into the melted butter and stir constantly with a wooden spoon for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns a rich caramel color and smells incredible.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the pecan pieces. Stir quickly and thoroughly for 1 to 2 minutes until every piece of pecan is coated in the caramel mixture.
  5. Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle the salt over the mixture. Stir everything together for another 30 seconds to distribute the flavors evenly.
  6. Working quickly before the mixture cools, pour the hot praline mixture onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread it out as thinly and evenly as possible using your spatula, pressing gently to create an even layer about a quarter inch thick.
  7. Let the praline crunch sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes until it's completely cool and hardened. You'll know it's ready when you can snap a piece without it bending.
  8. Once fully cooled, break the praline crunch into bite-sized pieces with your hands. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Work quickly when spreading the hot mixture because it hardens fast. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the sugar. Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to two weeks. Can be frozen for up to three months. If it softens from moisture, refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.