Description
This Nut Brittle Recipe offers a delightful balance of crunchy cashew nuts enveloped in a sweet, caramelized sugar coating. Made quickly in the microwave and finished in the oven, this brittle is a perfect homemade treat that’s easy to prepare and ideal for sharing during holidays or as a sweet snack any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Nut Brittle Ingredients
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 ¼ cups cashew halves and pieces
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or heavy-duty foil, then spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Also, spray a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl and a table knife with the cooking spray. Place the baking sheet in the oven to preheat; this will help with spreading the brittle later.
- Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup: In the prepared microwave-safe bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and light corn syrup until combined and slightly thickened. Microwave this mixture on high for 3½ minutes, watching for it to become clear and light in color.
- Add Cashews: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, stir in the cashew halves and pieces evenly, then microwave again for an additional 3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown, indicating it is caramelizing.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is completely melted and fully incorporated. Microwave the mixture for another 1 minute until it shifts to a medium amber color, signaling the right caramel stage.
- Add Baking Soda: Sprinkle the baking soda evenly over the caramel mixture and gently stir. The mixture will foam and lighten in color, changing to a caramel hue as the soda aerates the brittle, giving it a light texture.
- Pour and Spread: Remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Pour the bubbling brittle mixture onto the sheet and spread it thinly and evenly using a spatula that has been coated with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cool and Break Into Pieces: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until hardened. Once cooled, break the brittle into bite-sized pieces for serving or storage.
- Store: Transfer the broken brittle pieces to an airtight container to keep fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Be cautious when handling hot sugar mixtures to avoid burns.
- Spraying cooking spray on utensils and surfaces helps prevent the sticky brittle from adhering and makes spreading easier.
- You can substitute cashews with other nuts like peanuts, almonds, or pecans based on preference.
- Store brittle in a cool, dry place to maintain its crisp texture.
- If your environment is humid, brittle may soften faster; consume within a few days for best crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving and Baking
- Cuisine: American
