Coconut-Cashew Brittle
A rich, crunchy coconut-cashew brittle with sweet caramel notes and toasted coconut, perfect for sharing or gifting, appealing to nut and candy lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, Karo syrup, water, and butter in a 2-quart glass container; microwave on full power for 17 to 18 minutes, until mixture reaches 270°F (hard-ball stage).
- Remove from microwave and add the raw cashew bits.
- Return to microwave and cook for 5 to 6 minutes longer, until mixture reaches 300°F (brittle stage).
- Stir in coconut, vanilla, and soda.
- Pour onto a buttered platter, working quickly to prevent sticking.
- Cool partially by lifting edges with a spatula so the mixture won't stick.
- When firm but still warm, turn over.
- Pull the brittle as thin as desired at this point.
- When cool, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your coconut-cashew brittle is perfectly crisp, be precise with the temperature; use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you can't find raw cashew bits, you can substitute with whole raw cashews, but chop them coarsely. For added flavor, consider toasting the coconut lightly before mixing it in. If you prefer a sweeter note, a pinch of sea salt can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Coconut-cashew brittle makes a delightful snack on its own but can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive touch, serve it on a charcuterie board with dried fruits and cheeses. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover coconut-cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration as moisture can make it chewy. If you do want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing pieces in a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut-Cashew Brittle contains roughly 312 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different nuts in this brittle?
Yes, you can substitute cashews with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just ensure the nuts are raw for the best flavor and texture. Note that different nuts have varying oil content, which may slightly affect the final texture of your brittle.
What should I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your brittle turns out sticky, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. Ensure that the mixture reaches at least 300°F for the brittle stage. If it’s already made, you can re-cook the brittle gently in the microwave, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency.
How can I make my brittle more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your coconut-cashew brittle, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg during the mixing process. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or coconut, to create a unique twist that complements the dish.
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).