Hazelnut Brittle
A rich, crunchy hazelnut brittle with caramelized sugar and toasted hazelnuts, perfect for sharing or gifting to those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Oil an 11 x 17 inch pan and set aside.
- Stir sugar, apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup water in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Cook without stirring until the mixture turns dark amber, about 18 to 25 minutes.
- Stir in the hazelnuts.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and let it set until firm but still soft enough to cut.
- Unmold onto a cutting board.
- Working quickly, use an oiled knife to cut into 6 rectangles.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Tips & Substitutions
When making hazelnut brittle, ensure your sugar mixture reaches the right dark amber color for optimal flavor. If hazelnuts are not available, you can substitute with almonds or pecans. For a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract just before pouring the mixture into the pan. Keep a close eye while cooking, as the sugar can burn quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Hazelnut brittle makes a delightful treat on its own but can also be served alongside cheese platters or crumbled over desserts like ice cream or yogurt. It pairs beautifully with Joanna's Salad for a balanced meal. For an elegant presentation, wrap pieces in decorative cellophane for gifting during the holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover hazelnut brittle, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as this can cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to soften it for cutting, leave it out for a bit to come to room temperature. The brittle can last for up to a week, maintaining its crunch if stored properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hazelnut Brittle contains roughly 363 calories, with 7g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 15g 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 other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, you can easily substitute hazelnuts with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different nuts may vary slightly in flavor and texture.
What should I do if my sugar mixture crystallizes?
If your sugar mixture crystallizes while cooking, try adding a tablespoon of water and gently swirling the pan to dissolve the crystals. Avoid stirring the mixture with a spoon, as this can cause more crystallization.
How can I prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, ensure you oil the pan thoroughly before pouring in the brittle. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, which allows for easy removal once the brittle has set.
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).