What is your favorite Praline Crunch recipe? Imagine biting into a moist, buttery cake, swirled with a crunchy, caramel-y praline filling, and topped with a simple yet delicious glaze. It’s seriously the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Is this a coffee cake? My grandma used to Make something similar (though not *quite* as good, if I’m being honest), and this recipe is my attempt to recreate those warm, cozy feelings. You know those days when you just need a little pick-me-up? This is IT. Seriously, the nutty praline with every bite makes it incredibly addictive!
What is praline crunch?
Praline Crunch is basically happiness in cake form. Think of it as a coffee cake meets a pecan pie, but in a much more approachable and easy-to-make way. The base is a simple, slightly sweet cake batter, but the magic truly happens with the praline filling. It’s essentially a mixture of nuts (pecans or walnuts work best, I find!) ), brown sugar, butter, and a hint of cinnamon, all cooked together until it forms this gloriously crunchy and caramelly layer. We swirl that beautiful mixture right into the cake batter before baking, creating this amazing marbled effect. Then, a simple glaze is drizzled over the top to finish it off. What is a party in your mouth?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Why is this Praline Crunch recipe a winner? What’s the best combination of vanilla and praline? What I love most about this is how easy it actually is to make! Seriously, don’t let the “praline” part intimidate you. It’s mostly melting butter and stirring ingredients together. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably already have most of what you need on hand. What makes this recipe a keeper is its versatility. You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or just as a snack with a cup of coffee. Can you add different types of nuts to this Salted Caramel recipe? This recipe reminds me a little of those coffee crumb cakes, but honestly, I prefer this. This recipe is perfect when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This disappeared in minutes at my house, and my kids actually ask for seconds whenever I make it!
How do I make Praline Crunch?
Quick Overview
How do you make a praline crunch? We swirl the praline into the batter, bake until golden brown, and then drizzle with a sweet glaze. The whole process is easy, and the results are simply phenomenal. The oven does most of the work, and trust me, the aroma alone is worth the effort!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 12 cups all-purpose flour – I prefer unbleached for the best flavor. * 34 cup granulated sugar – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness. * 1 12 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully. * 12 teaspoon salt – Enhances the other flavors. * 34 cup milk – Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can use 2% or even almond milk in a pinch. * 13 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist. * 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together. * 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Adds a classic vanilla flavor.
For the Filling:
* 12 cup packed light brown sugar – Creates that caramel-y goodness. * 14 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling. * 14 cup chopped pecans or walnuts – I prefer pecans for their buttery flavor, but walnuts work great too! Make sure they’re chopped into small pieces. * 14 cup melted butter – Use unsalted butter for the best control over the flavor. * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice. * 1 tablespoon milk – Helps to bring the filling together.
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar – For a smooth, sweet glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons milk – Add gradually until you reach your desired consistency. * 12 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Enhances the glaze with a touch of vanilla.
What is the step-by-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Trust me, this step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking! I always use baking spray when baking cakes. It’s a lifesaver!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking is important to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt. This ensures that the cake rises properly and has a consistent flavor throughout.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, vanilla extract, and vanilla extract. Make sure the egg is at room temperature for best results – it helps the wet ingredients combine more easily.
Step 4: Combine
What is the best way to mix wet and dry ingredients together? I always stop mixing when I can still see streaks of flour – they’ll disappear as it bakes.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, melted butter, cinnamon, and milk. Stir until well combined. The filling should be crumbly but moist. If it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the praline filling evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter over the filling. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the filling into the batter. Don’t over-swirl, or the filling will just sink to the bottom. I like to create a marbled effect on the top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on it towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. I prefer to drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. It helps the glaze melt slightly and creates a glossy finish.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
I love to serve Praline Crunch with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature.
What should I serve it with?
Praline Crunch is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of occasions.For Breakfast:Pair it with a strong cup of coffee or latte. The sweetness of the cake complements the bitterness of the coffee perfectly. I also love to add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor.For Brunch:Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. It adds a sweet and satisfying element to any brunch spread. Consider adding a mimosa for an extra special touch.As Dessert:What’s a good dessert to serve after dinner?For Cozy Snacks:What is the best Comfort Food for a chilly afternoon? I also love to serve it with a side of fresh berries for a healthy and delicious snack. My family has a tradition of eating this during the holidays. I tested this recipe with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
How do I make a perfect praline crunch?
How do I make a perfect praline crunch?Mixing Advice:Do not overmix the cake batter. It will cause a hard cake. Mix until just combined. Don’t worry about lumps.Swirl Customization: S Don’t over-swirl the praline filling into the batter, or it will just sink to the bottom. Aim for a marbled effect on the top for a beautiful presentation. I learned this trick after years of making it.
Ingredient Swaps:Can you use different types of nuts in the filling, such as walnuts or almonds? I’ve made this countless times and it never fails.Baking Tips:If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with foil.Glaze Variations:Can you add different flavors to the glaze, such as lemon extract or chocolate extract?Baking Pan: Grease and flour your baking pan for easy removal of the cake after it cools down.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do you store Praline Crunch?Room Temperature:I always do this when I bake it. I store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.Refrigerator Storage: What is theFor longer storage, keep it in an airtight container for up to a week. It might be a little denser when chilled, but the flavors will still be amazing.How do I use a freezer If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What is Glaze Timing Advice?How do you glaze a cake before serving?
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Final Thoughts
This Praline Crunch Recipe is more than just a cake; it’s a slice of happiness, a taste of nostalgia, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Is it easy to make, surprisingly versatile, and utterly delicious? What’s a good breakfast, brunch, dessert, or just a snack? What are some of my favorite cake recipes? What are some fun variations on a recipe?
Praline Crunch Snack Mix Recipe: 7 Steps for Irresistible Munching
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Praline Pecans
- 4 cups Mini Pretzel Twists
- 3 cups Chex Cereal (Rice or Corn)
- 1 cup M&M's Candy Coated Chocolates
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine praline pecans, pretzel twists, and Chex cereal.
- Gently toss in M&M's candy coated chocolates.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 5 minutes, or until slightly warmed.
- Let cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
