A favorite Gunnell Family recipe (my maiden name) is called the Jersey Snack Bar.  Where did this name come from?  I don’t know.  It’s a cereal treat coated with a candied caramel.  The ingredients in this recipe are simple, but I know how easily fumbled it can go if not cooked for the correct amount of time.  Don’t let this scare you.  My mom always went by the water test, but I’ve found the right temperature to gauge by with a candy thermometer.   Follow these simple steps and it turns out perfectly every time!  You’ll love this fun dessert and they are ADDICTING!1 C Heavy Cream

1C Light Karo Syrup

1C Sugar

5C Rice Krispy Cereal

4C Corn Flakes Cereal

Chopped Pecans or Walnuts optional

2Tbs Butter

1 tsp vanilla

Measure out cereal and nuts into a large mixing bowl, set aside.  Heat the cream, syrup, and sugar in a large saucepan.  Cook this at  medium-high with a candy thermometer attached to the side of the pan.  Cook until it’s at a firm ball state (150 degrees).   It will take a good portion of time to cook, about 20 minutes.  As soon as the candy has cooked, turn off heat and add the butter and vanilla.  Pour this candy mixture all over the cereal and mix until combined.  Then press the cereal mixture into a cookie sheet, the kind with the lip around the edge.  Let cool and then cut into pieces and store in an airtight container or zipper storage bag.