Royal Cashew Brittle
Royal Cashew Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich cashew flavors and a caramelized sugar coating, perfect for sharing or gifting during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a cookie sheet.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Cook until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture reaches 260°F without stirring.
- Add chopped raw cashews and salt, cooking until the temperature reaches 290°F, stirring to prevent scorching.
- Remove from heat and add butter, vanilla, and baking soda.
- Pour the mixture onto the greased cookie sheet.
- Let stand until just cool enough to handle, then stretch the brittle slightly with greased fingers.
- Cool completely and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your saucepan is large enough to prevent the mixture from bubbling over as it cooks. For a nutty twist, experiment with different nuts like almonds or peanuts. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider adding a touch more sugar. Always use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in this brittle. Remember, patience is key in candy making.
Serving Suggestions
This Royal Cashew Brittle is perfect as a sweet snack on its own or as a delightful addition to gift baskets. Serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat. For a festive touch, pair it with a dessert like the Cottage Cheese Fruit Whip or enjoy it as a topping on ice cream for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make the brittle chewy. If you need to re-crisp the brittle, place it in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. Let it cool before enjoying again for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Royal Cashew Brittle contains roughly 130 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 681mg per serving (30% 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 roasted cashews instead of raw?
Yes, you can use roasted cashews, but keep in mind that they may affect the final flavor and texture. Roasted cashews will add a deeper flavor but may also create a slightly different crunch. If using roasted, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent burning.
What can I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your brittle turns out too sticky, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. Next time, ensure you cook the sugar mixture to the right temperature of 290°F. If it’s already made, try cooling it further before breaking it into pieces, as this can help reduce stickiness.
Can I add flavors or spices to the brittle?
Absolutely! You can enhance your cashew brittle by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg during the cooking process. For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating a splash of maple or almond extract along with the vanilla. Just be cautious with the amount to avoid overpowering the nutty taste.
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).