Maple Walnut Brittle
Maple Walnut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich maple flavor and toasted walnuts, perfect for sharing or gifting to caramel lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, and dark corn syrup in a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat. Stir to dissolve.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Continue cooking without stirring until the candy thermometer registers 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and maple flavoring until well combined.
- Quickly stir in walnut pieces.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading evenly.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your maple walnut brittle turns out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately, as cooking times can vary based on your stove. If desired, you can substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. Always spread the brittle thinly for a crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions
Maple walnut brittle is a delightful treat on its own but can also be served as an accompaniment to Joy'S Vanilla Ice Cream for an indulgent dessert. It pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a perfect snack for gatherings. Consider crumbling it over Soft Buttermilk Biscuits for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to reheat, place it in a low oven for a few minutes to restore its crispness, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Walnut Brittle contains roughly 383 calories, with 0g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 30g fat.
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 light corn syrup instead of dark corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute light corn syrup for dark corn syrup in this recipe. However, the flavor may be slightly less rich, so consider adding a bit more maple flavoring to enhance the taste.
What should I do if my brittle isn't hardening?
If your brittle isn't hardening, it may not have reached the correct temperature of 300°F. Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate, and if you suspect it hasn't reached hard crack stage, you can return the mixture to heat and cook a bit longer.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make maple walnut brittle vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure that your maple flavoring is also vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat while adhering to a vegan diet.
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).