Get ready to indulge in a sweet and crunchy delight that will have your taste buds dancing! This Crunchy Caramel Nut Brittle recipe is not just a treat; it's an irresistible confection that combines the rich flavors of caramel with the satisfying crunch of mixed nuts. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, this homemade brittle is easier to make than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a batch of this delectable candy that will impress friends and family alike. So, are you ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups mixed nuts
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients and equipment in advance. Line a large baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper, ensuring it's flat and ready for cooling the brittle.
- In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to ensure all sugar is moistened before heating.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. Use a pastry brush dipped in water to wash down any sugar crystals that form on the sides of the pan.
- Continue cooking until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This will take approximately 12-15 minutes. The mixture will turn a deep golden amber color.
- Remove the pan from heat immediately. Quickly stir in mixed nuts, salt, and vanilla extract. Work carefully as the caramel is extremely hot.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating a thin layer.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 30-45 minutes. Do not touch or disturb during cooling.
- Once fully cooled and hardened, break the brittle into irregular pieces by tapping with the handle of a knife or dropping the sheet onto a hard surface.
- Store the brittle in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will make the process smoother and help you avoid any last-minute scrambles.
- Watch the Temperature: Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the hard crack stage (300°F). This is crucial for achieving that perfect brittle texture!
- Be Cautious: Caramel can reach extremely high temperatures, so handle it with care. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area to avoid any accidents.
- Stir Gently: When combining the nuts with the caramel, stir gently and quickly to ensure even coating without splattering hot syrup.
- Cooling Time: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Patience is key here; don’t rush the cooling process, as it helps develop the right texture.
- Storage: To keep your brittle fresh, store it in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between pieces. This will prevent them from sticking together.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your brittle by adding different nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
