Sweet & Savory Pecan Praline Snack Mix
This delightful Sweet & Savory Pecan Praline Snack Mix, fondly known as 'Crunchy-Crunchy' in our family, is a cherished holiday favorite, crafted with love by my mother-in-law every Christmas. It's the perfect combination of crunchy cereal and rich, sweet pecans that make it irresistible, especially for my youngest child who eagerly anticipates receiving a big box filled with Grandma's special treat. While I occasionally whip up a batch myself, nothing beats the warmth and nostalgia of enjoying this mix made by Grandma. It's not just a festive snack; it's a year-round delight that makes for a wonderful gift when stored in an airtight container. This recipe includes a hint of salt to balance the sweetness, but you're welcome to omit it if you prefer the original flavor. Indulge in this delicious mix and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Quaker Oatmeal Squares Cereal
8 cups (1 whole box)
Pecans
2 cups (coarsely chopped)
Brown Sugar
1/2 cup (firmly packed)
Light Corn Syrup
1/2 cup
Butter
4 tablespoons (margarine can be used)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon
Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Prepare a 13 x 9-inch baking pan by spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
2
In the prepared pan, combine the Quaker Oatmeal Squares Cereal and the coarsely chopped pecans. Toss them together until evenly mixed.
3
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the firmly packed brown sugar, light corn syrup, and butter. Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute and 30 seconds, then stir the mixture.
4
Continue microwaving for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the mixture is boiling vigorously.
5
Once the mixture is boiling, carefully stir in the vanilla, baking soda, and optional salt. Mix thoroughly until combined.
6
Pour the hot sugar mixture over the cereal and pecan mixture in the baking pan. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
7
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, stirring the mix every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and coating.
8
After baking, transfer the mix onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading it out in an even layer to cool.
9
Allow the snack mix to cool completely before breaking it into pieces. Store the cooled mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet & Savory Pecan Praline Snack Mix?
It is a crunchy snack made of cereal and pecans coated in a sweet praline glaze, often called 'Crunchy-Crunchy'.
What cereal is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 cups of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Cereal, which is about one whole box.
How many pecans are needed?
You will need 2 cups of coarsely chopped pecans.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
How long does the snack mix bake?
The mixture should bake for 1 hour in the oven.
How often should I stir the mix while it bakes?
Stir the snack mix every 15 minutes to ensure even baking and coating.
Can I substitute butter?
Yes, the recipe states that margarine can be used in place of the 4 tablespoons of butter.
Is the salt mandatory?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of salt is optional and can be omitted if you prefer the original flavor.
How much brown sugar is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of firmly packed brown sugar.
What size baking pan should I use?
A 13 x 9-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the baking pan?
Spray the baking pan lightly with cooking spray before adding the cereal and pecans.
What type of corn syrup is used?
Use 1/2 cup of light corn syrup.
How long do I microwave the sugar mixture initially?
Microwave the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter on HIGH for 1 minute and 30 seconds.
When do I add the baking soda and vanilla?
Stir in the vanilla and baking soda once the sugar mixture is boiling vigorously.
What is the purpose of the baking soda?
Baking soda reacts with the acidic components to create a lighter, crispier texture for the praline coating.
How do I cool the snack mix?
Transfer the baked mix onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread it in an even layer.
How should the finished snack mix be stored?
Store the cooled mix in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch.
Is this a good gift idea?
Yes, it makes a wonderful gift when packaged in an airtight container.
Is this recipe difficult?
No, it is an easy recipe that involves simple microwave and oven steps.
Can I use different nuts?
While the recipe calls for pecans, you can experiment with other nuts, though pecans provide the classic praline flavor.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What should I do if the sugar mixture isn't boiling after the first microwave interval?
Continue microwaving for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds until it boils vigorously.
Do I need to grease the parchment paper?
No, the parchment paper naturally prevents sticking during the cooling process.
Is this a seasonal recipe?
While it is a Christmas favorite, it is a year-round delight that can be enjoyed anytime.
When should I break the mix into pieces?
Allow the snack mix to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: cereal, pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, vanilla, baking soda, and salt.
What is the nickname 'Crunchy-Crunchy'?
It is the affectionate name the author's family uses for this specific snack mix.
How much baking soda is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
Can I use a larger pan for baking?
You can use a larger pan as long as it allows for the cereal to be evenly coated and stirred easily.
Why stir every 15 minutes?
Stirring ensures that every piece of cereal and pecan is evenly coated with the praline mixture and prevents burning.