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Do you love indulging in rich, sweet, and addictive treats during the holiday season? Look no further than Caramel Nut Brittle. This classic holiday delicacy is a crunchy, buttery candy filled with caramel goodness and loaded with nuts. It’s not only a delicious snack for yourself but also makes for a perfect edible gift!
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Nut Brittle
- Everyone loves this crunchy caramel candy.
- You can use different kinds of nuts to create your own variations.
- It takes the traditional peanut brittle recipe up a notch with the addition of sliced almonds.
- It is quick and easy to make.
- Perfect for gifting during the holiday season.
- You can easily double or triple the recipe to make extra for gifting.
- Leftovers can be stored in the freezer or made ahead of time.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Caramel Nut Brittle, you’ll need:
- Salted butter – If using unsalted butter, add an extra pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Granulated white sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Water
- Baking soda
- Sliced almonds – They are easier to eat in the brittle, but whole almonds can work too.
- Salted peanuts – Dry roasted or unsalted peanuts will also work.
How to Make Caramel Nut Brittle
Follow these simple steps to prepare your own batch of Caramel Nut Brittle:
Step One: Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step Two: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the salted butter.
Step Three: Stir in the granulated white sugar, light corn syrup, and water.
Step Four: Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously until the sugar has dissolved.
Step Five: Once the sugar dissolves, place a candy thermometer in the pan and let the mixture boil until it reaches 290°F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, stir and watch the caramel until it turns a light brown color, thickens slightly, and creates foam from stirring.
Step Six: Add the baking soda and stir until well combined.
Step Seven: Immediately mix in the sliced almonds and salted peanuts, then pour everything onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step Eight: Spread the brittle out as evenly as possible using forks, a spatula, or a knife. It cools quickly, so be prepared.
Step Nine: Allow the brittle to cool for about 45 minutes, or until set.
Step Ten: Once set, break the brittle into smaller pieces and serve.
What to Serve with Caramel Nut Brittle
Enhance your snacking experience by pairing this delightful treat with:
- Homemade Eggnog
- Christmas Popcorn
- Air Fryer Candied Pecans
- Spiced Cranberry Punch
- Reindeer Chow
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients:
- Substitute light corn syrup with honey for a slightly different taste.
- Use other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or cashews. Just make sure they are about the same size as sliced almonds.
- Add pumpkin seeds for extra texture and crunch.
Storage Instructions
Store your Caramel Nut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two months. Keep it away from moisture to prevent stickiness.
Can I Freeze Caramel Nut Brittle?
Absolutely! You can freeze your nut brittle by tightly wrapping it to minimize moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh in the freezer for three to four months.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips to ensure your Caramel Nut Brittle turns out perfect every time:
- Always use parchment paper instead of wax paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
- Measure your nuts beforehand and have them ready to add when the caramel reaches the perfect temperature. Timing is crucial!
- Warm up the nuts in the microwave for 30 seconds before adding them to the caramel mixture. This will prevent the caramel from cooling too quickly and make it easier to spread.
The Role of Baking Soda in Brittle
Don’t underestimate the power of baking soda! It plays a vital role in creating the perfect brittle texture. The baking soda creates tiny air bubbles in the caramel mixture, resulting in a light and porous candy with the signature crunch we all love. Without baking soda, you’ll end up with a hard and chewy mess.
Craving more candy recipes? Check out these delicious options:
- Sweet Spiced Pecans
- Peanut Butter Truffles
- No-Fail Chocolate Fudge
- Salted Caramel Fudge
- Caramel Marshmallow Popcorn
- Frito Candy
- Microwave Peanut Brittle
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @simplystacieblog and Facebook at Simply Stacie for more mouthwatering recipes. If you try this recipe or any others, rate it on the recipe card below and tag me on Instagram using #simplystacie. I love sharing your photos on my Instagram stories! Remember to visit Ratingperson for more exciting content and holiday inspiration.