Praline Crunch Summer Bars

Praline Crunch Summer Bars are an irresistible no-bake dessert that perfectly balances sweet, nutty, and crunchy elements. Made with caramelized brown sugar, toasted pecans, and crispy rice cereal, these bars come together quickly and require no oven time—making them ideal for hot days when you want a treat without the heat. Whether for picnics, potlucks, or afternoon snacks, these southern-inspired bars offer a delightful crunch in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are a go-to summer sweet because they’re:

• Completely no-bake—great for warm weather.
• Quick and easy, requiring just 15 minutes of active prep.
• Made with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
• Sweet, buttery, and crunchy—like a praline in bar form.
• Easy to make ahead and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup corn syrup or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups crisp rice cereal
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring often, then remove from heat.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Add the crisp rice cereal and toasted pecans to the mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
7. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
8. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus cooling)
• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: 160 kcal per bar

Variations

• Nut swap: Use almonds, walnuts, or cashews instead of pecans.
• Cereal change: Substitute cornflakes or granola for a different texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Add melted chocolate over the top for a richer flavor.
• Spiced version: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Salty-sweet: Sprinkle sea salt on top before the bars cool completely.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Optional for firmer bars, especially in warmer climates.
• Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Reheating: Not required; serve bars at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re great for preparing a day or two in advance.

What type of syrup is best?

Corn syrup gives a classic caramel texture, while maple syrup adds extra flavor.

How do I toast pecans?

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or toast in a skillet until fragrant.

Can I make these bars without nuts?

Yes, omit the nuts or replace them with seeds or coconut flakes.

Do these bars hold up in warm weather?

They stay firm at room temperature but can soften in high heat; refrigerate if needed.

Are these gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free cereal to make the bars gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch.

How can I cut clean slices?

Let the bars cool completely, then use a sharp knife and clean between cuts.

Can I add dried fruit?

Yes, mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for extra texture.

Do I need to grease the pan?

Lining with parchment is sufficient for easy removal and cleanup.

Conclusion

Praline Crunch Summer Bars are a sweet, crunchy treat that comes together effortlessly—no oven required. With their rich caramel flavor, crispy texture, and nutty goodness, these bars are perfect for sharing at outdoor events or enjoying as a simple dessert at home. Quick, adaptable, and delicious, they’re a go-to recipe for beating the heat with something sweet.

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