Nut Brittle Recipe

If you’re looking for an irresistible sweet treat that’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaking just one more piece, Nut Brittle is your answer! This classic candy combines buttery, golden caramel with crunchy almonds and peanuts for a bite that’s perfectly crisp and full of nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or just getting started, you’ll adore how this Nut Brittle transforms just a handful of pantry staples into something truly spectacular. I promise, after just one batch, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Nut Brittle lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen for its role in texture, flavor, or that satisfying snap. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips so every bite turns out divine:

• Salted Butter: Adds richness and a hint of salt that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Granulated Sugar: The all-important foundation for your brittle’s characteristic caramel crunch.
• Light Corn Syrup: Prevents crystallization and keeps your brittle smooth and glossy.
• Water: Helps to dissolve the sugar and ensures even cooking in the caramelization process.
• Baking Soda: Adds little bubbles for that lighter, crisp texture we all crave in Nut Brittle.
• Almond Slices: Give extra crunch and a mild, nutty sweetness with every bite.
• Salted Peanuts: For salty, classic flavor and that unmistakable peanutty snap!

How to Make Nut Brittle

Step 1: Prep Like a Pro

Start by lining a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and gathering all your ingredients in advance. Trust me, when making Nut Brittle, things move quickly—so a little prep now will save you from scrambling later. Have everything within arm’s reach right next to your stovetop.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt your salted butter. Let it bubble gently, filling your kitchen with the best aroma. This forms the rich base that holds all your beautiful flavors together.

Step 3: Mix in the Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water

Once your butter has melted, it’s time to add the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved. This helps ensure you won’t get any grainy bits in your Nut Brittle later.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Clip a candy thermometer to the side of your saucepan and let the mixture cook over medium-high heat. Stir frequently, keeping a watchful eye, as things turn golden and luscious. Wait until it hits that all-important 300°F mark—also known as the hard crack stage—which takes around 15 minutes. This is the key to a snappy, proper brittle.

Step 5: Add Baking Soda and Nuts

Now, working quickly but thoughtfully, stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color, which is exactly what you want for that airy, delicate crunch. Immediately toss in your almonds and salted peanuts so the flavor melds right into the caramel.

Step 6: Spread and Cool

Pour the hot Nut Brittle mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula, back of a spoon, or even a large knife to spread it as evenly as you can. Don’t stress about getting it perfect—those rustic, uneven edges are the mark of homemade love! Let it cool for about 30 minutes, then break into pieces and celebrate your candy-making victory.

How to Serve Nut Brittle

Garnishes

While Nut Brittle is lovely on its own, you can dress it up with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate once cooled. For a festive touch, consider a dusting of edible gold or even chopped dried fruit right before the brittle sets.

Side Dishes

Pair your Nut Brittle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy dessert moment. This candy also works wonders as an unexpected topping on a homemade cheesecake or trifle.

Creative Ways to Present

There’s no shortage of fun ways to share Nut Brittle! Pack pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for holiday gifts, crumble some over yogurt parfaits, or arrange shards in a pretty jar for an edible centerpiece. If you’re entertaining, try sticking bits into frosted cupcakes for a playful, crunchy decoration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

For the best crunch, keep your Nut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay perfect for about 2 weeks, but chances are it’ll disappear much more quickly!

Freezing

While you can freeze Nut Brittle, be sure to wrap it tightly and use an airtight bag or container. Thaw at room temperature, keeping condensation (and sticky blobs) at bay. It’s still best enjoyed fresh, but this works in a pinch for longer storage.

Reheating

It’s not typical to reheat Nut Brittle, but if you’d like to perk up its crunch after storage, simply leave it uncovered at room temperature for an hour or pop a piece in a low (200°F) oven for a few minutes—just be careful not to let it melt!

FAQs

What’s the best way to get clean, even pieces of Nut Brittle?

Let the finished Nut Brittle cool completely, then use your hands to gently break it into shards. If you prefer more uniform pieces, use a sharp knife and press down firmly for clean cuts.

Can I use different types of nuts?

Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully versatile—try swapping peanuts and almonds for pecans, cashews, or pistachios. Use a mix, or stick to your favorite for a whole new flavor each time you whip up Nut Brittle.

What should I do if my brittle turns out sticky or chewy?

Sticky brittle usually means the mixture didn’t quite reach the hard crack stage (300°F). A good candy thermometer is your best friend here for foolproof results every time.

Is it important to toast the nuts beforehand?

Some swear by toasting the nuts to help the caramel mixture spread more easily and deepen the flavor, but it’s optional. Either way, you’ll end up with delightful results in every bite of Nut Brittle.

Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and gives that lovely, glossy texture. While you can experiment with alternatives like honey or golden syrup, the classic Nut Brittle texture comes from corn syrup.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made homemade Nut Brittle, now is the perfect time! It’s quick, magical, and every bite is a sweet, nutty reward for just a little bit of effort. Gather a few ingredients, invite someone to help with the stirring, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite homemade candy. Give it a try—your kitchen (and your sweet tooth) will thank you!

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