Cashew Crunch

Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and crunchy cashew treats with caramelized sugar and butter, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy rich, nutty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. sugar
  • 1 c. butter
  • 2 c. cashews

Instructions

  1. Cook and stir sugar and butter until creamy.
  2. Add cashews. Cook and stir until brown and creamy.
  3. Pour onto wax paper-lined cookie sheet.
  4. Cool and break into pieces.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try toasting the cashews before adding them to the sugar and butter mixture. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using coconut oil instead of butter, though it may alter the final texture slightly. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning, especially as the mixture starts to thicken. This recipe is reminiscent of Better 'N Fried Chicken, offering a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Cashew crunch makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, providing a sweet contrast to the drink. For a fun twist, try crumbling it over yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to your morning meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cashew crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, refrigeration may be necessary, but allow it to come back to room temperature before serving, as refrigeration can make it too hard. To reheat, simply place in a warm oven for a few minutes until it softens slightly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cashew Crunch contains roughly 1481 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 148g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1481 kcal 74% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.4g 21% DV
Total Fat 148g 100% DV
Carbs 33.8g 12% DV
Fiber 4.4g 16% DV
Sugar 3g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 15mg 1% DV
Potassium 487.2mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 360mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 21.8mg 24% DV
Calcium 41.4mg 3% DV
Iron 4mg 22% DV
Contains Milk Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cashews give a unique flavor, you can substitute with almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Each nut will bring its own character to the crunch, so feel free to experiment. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut used.

What should I do if the mixture is too sticky?

If your cashew crunch mixture becomes too sticky, try cooking it a bit longer over low heat while stirring continuously. This should help to evaporate any excess moisture and make it easier to pour onto the wax paper. Ensure you have enough sugar and butter for the right consistency.

Can I add flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon?

Yes, adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the flavor of your cashew crunch. Just be sure to add these ingredients during the cooking process, but do so sparingly to avoid overpowering the nutty taste.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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