Hawaiian Mac-Nut Brittle
Hawaiian Mac-Nut Brittle offers a sweet, crunchy treat with rich macadamia nuts and caramelized sugar, perfect for sharing or as a tropical-inspired gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix baking soda, vanilla, and 1 teaspoon of water; set aside.
- Combine water, sugar, and corn syrup; heat to 275°F using a candy thermometer.
- Add chopped macadamia nuts and cook until the mixture reaches 302°F.
- Remove from heat, add butter and baking soda mixture, and stir well.
- Pour onto a greased cookie sheet to cool.
- Once cooled, break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure that your candy thermometer is calibrated for accurate temperature readings; this is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you don't have macadamia nuts, feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. For added complexity, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. Remember to work quickly when pouring the mixture, as it can harden rapidly.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Mac-Nut Brittle makes an excellent snack on its own but can also be crumbled over yogurt or ice cream for a delightful dessert. Pair it with a refreshing drink like a Mocha Cooler for a balanced treat. This brittle can also be packaged as a homemade gift or party favor, making it a perfect addition to holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it sticky. If you need to reheat it, place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a low oven for a few minutes, ensuring they regain their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Mac-Nut Brittle contains roughly 1137 calories, with 5g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1250mg per serving (54% 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
What should I do if my candy doesn't reach the desired temperature?
If your mixture isn't reaching the desired temperature, ensure your heat is set to medium-high and that you're using a reliable candy thermometer. Keep stirring to prevent scorching and maintain even heating. If necessary, increase the heat slightly but watch closely to avoid burning.
Can I make this brittle in advance for a party?
Yes, you can prepare Hawaiian Mac-Nut Brittle several days in advance. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. This makes it a convenient treat for parties, allowing you to focus on other dishes like the Lucia Cranberry Parfait.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make this brittle vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure that your sugars are vegan-friendly, as some processing methods may not meet vegan standards. This adjustment maintains the flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
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).