Praline Crunch Crispix with Pecans (Sweet, Buttery & Irresistibly Crunchy)

If you love sweet-and-salty snack mixes with a caramelized crunch, this Praline Crunch Crispix with Pecans is about to become your new favorite treat. It’s made with crispy cereal, buttery brown sugar praline coating, and toasted pecans — baked until golden and perfectly crisp.

This recipe is ideal for holidays, edible gifts, bake sales, party snack tables, or even as a sweet afternoon snack. It’s simple to prepare, easy to scale, and stores beautifully.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn:

• What makes praline crunch so addictive
• Step-by-step instructions
• Pro tips for the perfect caramel coating
• Healthy maple syrup variation
• Storage and gifting tips
• Flavor variations
• FAQs for consistent results

Let’s dive in.

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What Is Praline Crunch Crispix?

Praline Crunch Crispix is a baked caramel cereal snack mix made with crispy rice-and-corn cereal such as Crispix, coated in a buttery brown sugar praline glaze and mixed with pecans.

The glaze hardens as it cools, creating clusters of crunchy, candy-coated cereal and nuts — similar to candied pecans but lighter and crispier.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet & Buttery Flavor

Brown sugar and butter create a rich praline taste.

2. Perfect Crunch

Baking dries the coating and forms irresistible clusters.

3. Make-Ahead Friendly

Stays fresh for days in an airtight container.

4. Great for Gifting

Looks beautiful packaged in jars or treat bags.

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Ingredients for Praline Crunch Crispix with Pecans

• 8 cups Crispix cereal
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

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Why These Ingredients Work

Butter + Brown Sugar

Creates a deep, caramelized praline flavor.

Corn Syrup

Prevents crystallization and keeps coating smooth.

Baking Soda

Reacting with the hot caramel mixture creates tiny air bubbles, making the coating lighter and crisp instead of hard candy-like.

Pecans

Naturally buttery and slightly bitter — perfect balance to sweet glaze.

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How to Make Praline Crunch Crispix

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

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Step 2: Combine Cereal & Pecans

Place Crispix and pecans in a large mixing bowl.

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Step 3: Make Praline Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt:

• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Corn syrup
• Salt

Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat and stir in:

• Vanilla extract
• Baking soda

Mixture will foam slightly — this is normal.

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Step 4: Coat the Cereal

Pour hot praline mixture over cereal and pecans. Stir gently until evenly coated.

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Step 5: Bake for Maximum Crunch

Spread mixture evenly on prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 45–60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

This step ensures even caramelization and crisp texture.

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Step 6: Cool Completely

Let cool fully before breaking into clusters.

As it cools, it becomes perfectly crunchy.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Praline Crunch

Stir During Baking

Prevents burning and ensures even coating.

Don’t Rush the Cooling

It hardens as it cools — resist breaking it apart too early.

Use a Large Bowl

Ensures even coating without crushing cereal.

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Healthy Maple Syrup Version (Refined Sugar Alternative)

Since you prefer healthier sweetener swaps, here’s a lighter version:

Replace:

• Brown sugar + corn syrup → 1 cup pure maple syrup
• Butter → ¾ cup coconut oil

Simmer maple syrup and coconut oil 3–4 minutes before adding baking soda.

Bake as directed.

Texture will be slightly less glossy but still crunchy and flavorful.

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Flavor Variations

1. Chocolate Drizzle

Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over clusters.

2. Spiced Praline Crunch

Add:

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg

3. Holiday Version

Add dried cranberries after baking.

4. Salted Caramel Style

Sprinkle flaky sea salt immediately after baking.

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Storage Instructions

• Store in airtight container at room temperature
• Keeps fresh 7–10 days
• Avoid refrigeration (can soften texture)

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Gifting Ideas

Package in:

• Mason jars
• Clear cellophane bags
• Holiday tins

Add a handwritten label for a homemade touch.

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Why Praline Crunch Is So Popular

The combination of:

• Crispy cereal
• Buttery caramel glaze
• Toasted pecans
• Perfect crunch

creates a snack that feels like candied nuts and caramel popcorn combined — but easier to make and less sticky.

It’s especially popular during:

• Thanksgiving
• Christmas
• Bake sales
• Game day gatherings

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, but Crispix works best because its shape holds coating well.

Can I use other nuts?

Absolutely. Try almonds, cashews, or walnuts.

Why is my mix sticky?

It may need more baking time or additional cooling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but bake on two separate sheets for even crisping.

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Expert Notes for Best Results

• Cook praline mixture until fully bubbling
• Spread mixture in thin layer for even baking
• Stir carefully to avoid crushing cereal
• Allow full cooling before storing

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Final Thoughts

Praline Crunch Crispix with Pecans is:

• Sweet
• Buttery
• Crunchy
• Easy to make
• Perfect for holidays
• Ideal for gifting

If you want a snack that tastes gourmet but requires simple pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers every time.

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