Easy Butter Crunch
A delightful crunchy treat combining buttery caramelized almonds topped with smooth chocolate, perfect for sharing at gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy skillet; stir in sugar.
- Add almonds and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is golden and almonds begin to pop.
- Spread evenly in a jelly roll pan (15 1/2 x 10 1/2).
- Immediately sprinkle with chocolate chips and spread evenly until the chocolate is set and cool.
- Once cooled, crack the candy into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of regular butter. If you're allergic to almonds, walnuts or pecans can be excellent substitutes. Keep stirring the mixture constantly while cooking to avoid burning, and use a candy thermometer if you have one to achieve the perfect golden color. This recipe is a delightful treat like Glorified Pumpkin Pie, bringing joy in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Butter crunch can be served as a stand-alone treat or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It makes a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside Quick Strawberry Bread or other sweet treats. For a festive touch, consider using this candy as a topping for holiday cookies or as a gift in a decorative tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover butter crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, refrigeration may help maintain its crispness. To enjoy, simply allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the candy chewy instead of crunchy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Butter Crunch contains roughly 866 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like cashews or pecans based on your preference. Just keep in mind that each nut has a different flavor profile, which may slightly alter the taste of the final product. Choose nuts that you enjoy for the best results!
What should I do if my chocolate chips don't melt smoothly?
If the chocolate chips don't melt smoothly, you can return the pan to low heat for a short time while stirring continuously. Alternatively, you can transfer the chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave them in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until melted. This will help achieve a smooth consistency for spreading.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! To double the recipe, simply increase all the ingredients proportionally. However, be sure to use a larger pan to accommodate the additional mixture, and adjust the cooking time slightly as thicker layers may require a bit more time to reach the golden stage. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
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).