Imagine a dessert that perfectly balances the rich, golden sweetness of caramel with the irresistible crunch of toasted nuts and a tantalizing hint of sea salt. Our Salted Caramel Nut Brittle is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet treat that will have everyone begging for more. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and impress even the most discerning taste buds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mixed nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashews)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients and equipment before starting. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Have a candy thermometer ready.
- Toast the mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium-high heat without stirring, allowing the sugar to dissolve and begin caramelizing.
- Watch the sugar mixture carefully as it turns from clear to golden amber. This process takes approximately 8-10 minutes. Do not stir, only gently swirl the pan if needed.
- Once the caramel reaches a deep amber color, carefully add butter and whisk quickly. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be cautious.
- Immediately add the toasted mixed nuts and stir to coat evenly in the caramel.
- Pour in heavy cream and continue stirring. The mixture will bubble and steam intensely.
- Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel nut mixture and stir to incorporate.
- Quickly pour the hot caramel nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes until hardened.
- Once fully cooled, break the brittle into irregular pieces using your hands or the back of a heavy knife.
- Store the salted caramel nut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise caramelization. Watch the sugar closely to prevent burning.
- Nut Selection Matters: Choose a mix of nuts for varied texture and flavor. Toasting them beforehand enhances their natural oils and crunch.
- Safety First: Caramel gets extremely hot, so use long-handled utensils and be cautious of intense bubbling when adding cream and butter.
- Patience is Crucial: Allow the brittle to cool completely before breaking. Rushing can result in a sticky, less crisp texture.
- Storage Hack: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain maximum crunchiness for up to a week.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different salt types like flaky Maldon or add a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
