Praline Squares
Praline Squares are rich, crunchy treats featuring layers of buttery graham crackers topped with a sweet pecan caramel mixture. Perfect for parties or satisfying a sweet tooth, they combine toasty nuts with caramelized sugar for a delightful, nostalgic dessert experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange 24 graham crackers in a single layer on an ungreased 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
- Place butter and brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
- Stir in chopped pecans and mix well.
- Spoon the mixture over the crackers evenly.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 2 minutes.
- Cut into squares while still warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, try drizzling melted chocolate over the squares after baking. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred. Make sure to monitor the baking time closely to avoid burning, as ovens can vary. For a unique twist, experiment with different nuts or add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These praline squares make a delightful dessert on their own but can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them at gatherings or alongside other treats like the No-Bake Strawberry Bottom Cheese Cake for a varied dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover praline squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you prefer warm squares, reheat in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until warmed through, but avoid the microwave as it may make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Praline Squares contains roughly 519 calories, with 6g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make praline squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the praline squares a day in advance. Just follow the recipe as directed, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I do if I don't have graham crackers?
If graham crackers are unavailable, you can substitute them with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a similar texture. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free graham crackers or use a mixture of ground almonds and coconut for the base.
Can I freeze praline squares?
Yes, praline squares freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and let them come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).