Description
This classic Nut Brittle Recipe delivers a perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Made with a simple combination of sugar, corn syrup, mixed nuts, and a hint of vanilla, this homemade candy is easy to prepare and perfect for holiday treats or anytime snacking. The brittle’s satisfying crunch and rich taste make it a delightful dessert that can be stored and enjoyed over multiple occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup Base
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
Nuts and Flavorings
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as peanuts, almonds, cashews, or pecans)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare your baking surface: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside. This will be used to spread the hot brittle mixture once cooked.
- Cook the sugar syrup: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves. Then, stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil steadily.
- Monitor temperature: Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue cooking until the syrup reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage, which typically takes about 10–12 minutes. This ensures the brittle sets properly and becomes crunchy.
- Add nuts and flavorings: As soon as the thermometer hits 300°F, quickly but carefully stir in the mixed nuts, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. The mixture will bubble up vigorously—stir swiftly to combine all ingredients evenly without burning yourself.
- Pour and spread: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread it out into an even, thin layer to allow it to cool and harden uniformly.
- Cool and break into pieces: Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, consider toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the syrup.
- You may sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle right after pouring it onto the sheet for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.
- Be extremely cautious when handling hot sugar mixtures, as they are very hot and sticky and can cause burns.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1 oz)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
