This time of year, nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats filling the house. To add a touch of old-fashioned charm to your holiday season, how about whipping up a batch of delicious Holiday Nut Brittle? This traditional American sweet treat combines crunchy caramelized sugar with a medley of nuts for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with loved ones, this nut brittle recipe is sure to become a festive favorite in your household.
Holiday Nut Brittle
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, pecans, and walnuts)
Instructions:
1. Before you start, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the brittle from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, unsalted butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Continue to cook the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches a golden amber color. This will take about 10-12 minutes, and it’s important to keep a close eye on the mixture to prevent it from burning.
4. Once the caramel is a rich amber hue, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up at this stage.
5. Immediately stir in the mixed nuts, ensuring that they are evenly coated in the caramel mixture. Working quickly, pour the hot brittle onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out with a spatula to form an even layer.
6. Allow the nut brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a knife. Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will keep for up to two weeks (if it lasts that long!).
The crunchy texture and rich flavor of this Holiday Nut Brittle make it a wonderful addition to any Christmas gathering, or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. The combination of sweet caramel and toasty nuts creates a truly irresistible treat that captures the essence of the holiday season.
So, why not embrace the spirit of the holidays and whip up a batch of this classic nut brittle? Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a little festive joy, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade treats with this delightful Holiday Nut Brittle recipe!
