If you’re looking for an irresistible treat that perfectly balances crunch, sweetness, and a bit of nutty goodness, you have to try this Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe. These pralines bring together the buttery warmth of toffee, the satisfying snap of graham crackers, and the rich texture of pecans, creating a candy that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe delivers a delightful crunch and a deep caramel flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each component plays a crucial role in making this Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe a standout. The blend of buttery richness, crunchy pecans, and sweet graham crackers creates perfect harmony in both flavor and texture.
- 12 whole graham crackers: Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with caramel flavors.
- 1 cup salted butter: Adds rich, creamy depth and balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed): Brings a deep molasses flavor that intensifies the toffee taste.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Offers a satisfying crunch and a toasty nutty note that complements the sugar.
- 1 cup toffee bits: The crowning touch that melts slightly and forms little pockets of buttery caramel goodness.
How to Make Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the base
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer, filling all gaps by breaking extra crackers as needed. This will be your crunchy canvas.
Step 2: Make the toffee mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter and dark brown sugar together. Stir constantly until the mixture melts completely and then let it boil for exactly 1 minute. This brief boil is the secret to that perfect chewy-toffee consistency.
Step 3: Add the pecans
Quickly stir in the chopped pecans to the hot caramel mixture. Their natural oils and crunchy texture infuse the toffee with a rich nuttiness that’s truly addictive.
Step 4: Pour over graham crackers
Pour the pecan-toffee mixture evenly over the arranged graham crackers. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover fully—it will bubble and spread in the oven to create a beautifully caramelized layer.
Step 5: Bake until bubbly
Bake the pan in the oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the toffee is bubbling actively—this indicates the sugar is fully cooked and the flavors are marrying perfectly.
Step 6: Add the toffee bits
Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the toffee bits over the caramel layer. Use a rubber spatula to gently press them in so they melt slightly and create an extra layer of pure toffee bliss. Remember, the pan will be hot, so avoid touching it with your hands.
Step 7: Cool and break into pieces
Let the mixture cool to room temperature on the counter. For easiest cutting or breaking, allow it to set overnight so the pralines firm up perfectly. Then simply break or cut into delicious, bite-sized pieces to enjoy.
How to Serve Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each piece just before serving to elevate the sweet-to-salty experience. You can also drizzle some melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the buttery toffee.
Side Dishes
These pralines shine on their own, but pairing them with iced coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience. Their crunchy texture and rich flavor make them a perfect sweet snack alongside a warm cup of tea or a creamy dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider layering these pralines in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift. Or crumble them as a topping over cakes and cupcakes to add that irresistible toffee crunch. They also work wonderfully nestled in a festive dessert platter for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pralines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their delightful crunch and freshness without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these sweet treats later, feel free to freeze them. Wrap the pralines tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, making them perfect for prepping ahead of holidays or special occasions.
Reheating
For that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, gently warm pralines in a low oven for a few minutes. This softens the toffee slightly and freshens up the flavors. Just be careful not to overheat, or they may become too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts make great substitutes, each adding their own unique flavor and crunch to the Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe.
What if I don’t have toffee bits available?
If you can’t find toffee bits, try finely chopping a toffee bar or use caramel chips as an alternative. The key is to add that distinct buttery toffee goodness on top.
How do I prevent the pralines from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper or foil to line your baking sheet is crucial. It prevents sticking and makes it much easier to remove and break the pralines once set.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the graham crackers with a gluten-free crisp cookie or cracker of your choice to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
What’s the best way to cut the pralines?
For clean cuts, wait until the pralines have completely cooled and set, preferably overnight. Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to gently slice through without cracking the pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe is one of those magical treats that feels effortless but impresses everyone who tries it. The combination of crunchy, buttery, and caramel flavors creates a snack that’s perfect for any occasion or just a cozy weekend indulgence. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see how quickly it disappears from your kitchen!
Print
Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
Description
Delight in these Toffee Graham Cracker Pralines, a scrumptious treat that combines the crunch of graham crackers with a rich praline topping made from buttery brown sugar, pecans, and sweet toffee bits. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these pralines bake in just 20 minutes, offering a gooey, nutty, and crunchy delight that’s easy to make and irresistible.
Ingredients
Base
- 12 whole graham crackers (plus more as needed)
Praline Mixture
- 1 cup salted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Topping
- 1 cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Arrange Graham Crackers: Lay the graham crackers in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking sheet. Break some crackers into smaller pieces as needed to fill any gaps or corners for an even base.
- Make Praline Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter and dark brown sugar together. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined. Bring it to a boil, maintaining constant stirring, and let it boil for 1 minute to thicken slightly.
- Add Pecans: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the chopped pecans to coat them evenly in the praline mixture.
- Pour Praline over Crackers: Pour the hot praline and pecan mixture evenly over the arranged graham crackers on the baking sheet. It won’t cover the crackers fully at this stage, which is normal.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbling and set.
- Add Toffee Bits: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the toffee bits evenly over the top. Using a rubber spatula, gently press the toffee bits into the warm praline mixture to adhere. Avoid using your hands as the mixture is very hot.
- Cool and Set: Let the pralines rest in the pan at room temperature until fully cooled and hardened. For best results, allow them to rest overnight before breaking or cutting into pieces. This step ensures clean breaks and perfect texture.
- Store Properly: Store the pralines in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
Notes
- You can break graham crackers into smaller pieces to fit the baking sheet and ensure even coverage.
- Be cautious when handling the hot praline mixture and toffee bits to avoid burns.
- Allowing pralines to rest overnight improves texture and makes them easier to cut or break.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Freezing extends shelf life without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
