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This old-fashioned Nut Brittle brings back sweet memories and works for any get-together. When you crunch into the mix of almonds and peanuts in this time-honored treat, you'll win over everyone around your table.
WHAT YOU NEED
- ½ cup salted butter: Gives the brittle its smooth, buttery foundation.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Turns into that golden, crunchy sweetness that makes brittle so good.
- ½ cup light corn syrup: Keeps your brittle from getting too hard to handle before setting.
- ⅓ cup water: Mixes with sugar to create the sticky sweet base.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Creates tiny bubbles that make your brittle light and snappy.
- ½ cup almond slices: Adds that distinctive nutty taste and extra crunch.
- ½ cup salted peanuts: Brings a salty kick that balances out all the sweetness.
HOW TO MAKE IT
- Step 1:
- Put parchment paper on a baking sheet with edges and put it aside. Get all your stuff measured out and ready to go near your stove.
- Step 2:
- Take a big pot and melt your butter over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- After butter melts, add your sugar, corn syrup, and water. Keep stirring until you can't see any sugar grains, which takes about 2 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Stick a candy thermometer on your pot and cook everything while stirring often until it hits 300°F, which usually takes around 15 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Once you hit 300°F, quickly mix in the baking soda. Watch out—it'll bubble up and get lighter.
- Step 6:
- Throw in your almond slices and peanuts, stirring so they spread out evenly.
- Step 7:
- Pour everything fast onto your baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it out flat.
- Step 8:
- Let it cool all the way down for about 30 minutes. When it's hard, break it into chunks and dig in.
Keeping It Fresh
- Put your brittle in a container that seals tight and it'll stay good at room temp for up to 2 weeks.
- Want to make someone happy? This brittle makes an awesome present in pretty tins or fancy bags.
- Don't put this in the fridge or it might get all sticky and weird.
Smart Tricks
- Try cashews or pecans instead of almonds if you want to change things up.
- Want it sweeter? Just use more almonds and cut back on the salty peanuts.
- You really need a candy thermometer to nail that perfect crunchy texture.
Pro cooking advice
- Martha Stewart says fancy butter makes the whole thing taste way better.
- Ina Garten likes adding a splash of vanilla to make the flavor more interesting.
- Jacques Pépin warns you should keep stirring or you'll end up with burnt brittle nobody wants.
WHY THIS IS A WINNER
- You can whip it up fast with basic stuff you've probably got in your kitchen already.
- The sweet-salty combo makes everyone come back for seconds.
- It's perfect for holiday parties or making homemade gifts.
MIX IT UP
- Try using cashews or walnuts instead of almonds and peanuts for a totally different taste.
- Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a cozy flavor twist.
- Scatter some chocolate chips on top after spreading it out for a sweet chocolate layer.