Praline Crunch

Praline Crunch
Ingredients:
2 cups pecan halves (or mixed nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling or mixing in)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Set aside.
2. Toast the Nuts:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans (or mixed nuts) for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them. Alternatively, you can toast the nuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Once toasted, remove the nuts from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Praline Caramel:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once melted, add the sugar and stir constantly until it begins to melt and form a smooth caramel. Continue to stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Slowly add the heavy cream to the mixture, continuing to stir constantly. The mixture may bubble up at first, but keep stirring to prevent it from burning. Stir for another 2-3 minutes until the caramel is smooth and fully combined.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for flavor.
4. Combine the Nuts and Caramel:
Add the toasted nuts to the saucepan with the caramel and stir to coat them evenly with the caramel mixture. Make sure all the nuts are well-covered.
Pour the nut and caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer.
5. Cool and Set:
Allow the praline crunch to cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes, or until the caramel hardens and the mixture is set.
6. Optional: Add Chocolate Drizzle:
If you'd like to add a chocolate drizzle, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled praline crunch using a spoon or fork.
Let the chocolate set for a few minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
7. Break into Pieces:
Once the praline crunch has cooled and hardened, break it into pieces or shards, and store in an airtight container.