Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Praline Crunch is a quick and simple dessert that requires no baking but delivers plenty of sweet satisfaction. The caramel-coated nuts add a deep, buttery flavor, while the cereal brings lightness and crunch. It’s versatile, can be customized with your favorite nuts or cereals, and stores well for easy snacking.
Ingredients
-
3 cups pecans or walnuts, chopped
-
6 cups cornflakes or rice cereal
-
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
-
2 cups packed brown sugar
-
1/2 cup light corn syrup
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/2 tsp baking soda
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare Pan:
-
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
-
-
Toast Nuts and Cereal:
-
Spread chopped nuts and cereal in the prepared pan and set aside.
-
-
Make the Caramel Mixture:
-
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
-
Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and salt.
-
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
-
Boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring continuously.
-
-
Add Flavorings:
-
Remove from heat.
-
Stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam.
-
-
Combine and Coat:
-
Immediately pour the caramel mixture over the nuts and cereal.
-
Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
-
-
Cool and Set:
-
Spread mixture evenly in the pan.
-
Let cool completely at room temperature until set.
-
Break into chunks or bars.
-
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: About 12
-
Prep time: 15 minutes
-
Cook time: 10 minutes
-
Total time: 25 minutes (plus cooling time)
Variations
-
Nut Mix: Use almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts.
-
Cereal Swap: Substitute with Rice Krispies, Cheerios, or other crunchy cereals.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate drizzle on top after cooling.
-
Spiced: Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the caramel for extra warmth.
-
Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before cooling.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
-
Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
-
Reheating: Not necessary—serve at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts?
Yes, feel free to use any nuts you prefer.
What cereal works best?
Crunchy cereals like cornflakes or rice cereal work well.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free cereal to keep it gluten-free.
How do I prevent burning the caramel?
Stir constantly and monitor heat closely while boiling.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan to spread the mixture evenly.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Add chocolate chips after cooling slightly for melty goodness.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, but keep an eye during caramel cooking for safety.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit added salt in the recipe.
How long does it take to set?
Usually 1–2 hours at room temperature.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, add after caramel coating but before cooling.
Conclusion
Praline Crunch is a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Combining buttery caramel, toasted nuts, and crispy cereal, it’s an irresistible snack or dessert that’s great for sharing or enjoying anytime.

Praline Crunch
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (
- Yield: 12
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Praline Crunch is a rich, no-bake dessert featuring caramel-coated nuts and crunchy cereal for a perfect blend of sweet, buttery, and crispy textures. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this decadent treat is perfect for sharing, gifting, or satisfying your sweet cravings anytime.
Ingredients
-
3 cups pecans or walnuts, chopped
-
6 cups cornflakes or rice cereal
-
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
-
2 cups packed brown sugar
-
1/2 cup light corn syrup
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
-
Prepare Pan:
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. -
Toast Nuts and Cereal:
Spread chopped nuts and cereal evenly in the prepared pan. Set aside. -
Make Caramel Mixture:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and salt.
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
Boil for 4–5 minutes, stirring continuously. -
Add Flavorings:
Remove from heat.
Stir in vanilla extract and baking soda; the mixture will foam up. -
Combine and Coat:
Immediately pour caramel mixture over nuts and cereal.
Stir gently to coat everything evenly. -
Cool and Set:
Spread mixture evenly in the pan.
Let cool completely at room temperature until set.
Break into chunks or bars.
Notes
Use mixed nuts or swap pecans for almonds or cashews.Substitute cereal with Rice Krispies or Cheerios.Drizzle melted chocolate on top once cooled for extra decadence.Sprinkle flaky sea salt before cooling for a salted caramel twist.Stir in dried fruit after coating for additional texture.