Description
These Pecan Crunch Glazed Bites are perfectly sweet and crunchy no-bake treats, featuring a stable binder that ensures they hold their shape without crumbling. Rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, and chopped pecans combine for a delightful texture, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze that adds an extra layer of indulgent flavor. Ideal for snack time or casual gatherings, they come together quickly and require minimal cooking time.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bites:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep Your Station: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a very large heatproof bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, and chopped pecans. Have this bowl ready and waiting as you’ll need to work quickly in the next step.
- Mastering the Binder (The “Never Crumbles!” Secret): In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling vigorously, allow it to boil for exactly 1 minute while continuing to stir. This precise boiling time is critical for creating a stable binder that prevents crumbling.
- Combine Quickly: Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the hot sugar mixture over the oats, rice cereal, and pecans in the large bowl. Quickly stir to thoroughly and evenly coat all dry ingredients with the binder.
- Form and Chill: Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded spoonfuls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently shape them into mounds if desired. Work swiftly as the mixture will begin to set while cooling.
- Set Firmly: Refrigerate the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes until the bites are completely firm and hold their shape.
- Whip Up the Glaze: While the bites chill, whisk together powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk in 1/2 teaspoon increments until a thick yet pourable consistency is reached.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the firm bites from the refrigerator. Drizzle or spoon the glaze generously over each bite. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes at room temperature, or chill briefly to speed up setting before serving.
Notes
- The precise 1-minute boiling time for the binder is essential to avoid crumbling and ensure the bites hold their shape.
- Work quickly when mixing and forming the bites as the mixture sets rapidly upon cooling.
- You can use any non-dairy milk alternative if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain firmness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pecan bites, glazed snacks, crunchy snacks, no-bake treats, pecan desserts, quick snacks
