Unleash Your Sweet Tooth with Maple Cashew Brittle

Introduction

Crunchy, buttery, and full of flavor, maple cashew brittle is a simple sweet treat that takes just 15 minutes to make. Originating in Eastern Europe, this classic candy has become a favorite across North America with the widespread availability of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ cups roasted and salted cashews
• Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, maple syrup, corn syrup, and butter.
3. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches 300 F, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda. The mixture will bubble up.
5. Quickly stir in the cashews.
6. Pour onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
7. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and let cool for 30 minutes.
8. Cut or break into pieces, then serve immediately or package in an airtight container.

Note: Experiment with different nuts for a personalized touch. See the variations section for ideas.

Variations:

While the classic recipe uses cashews, feel free to try these nutty variations:

• Toasted pecans or walnuts for a richer flavor.
• Macadamia nuts or pistachios for a touch of tropical flair.
• Slivered or sliced almonds for a familiar crunch.

Testing Sugar Mixture Temperature:

Ensure your brittle reaches the correct temperature by using visual and auditory cues:

• Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for 300 F.
• Perform a cold water test — the syrup should harden into brittle threads when dropped into ice water.
• Observe color changes, bubbles, and cracking sounds during cooking.

Microwave Option:

If you prefer a microwave method, follow these steps:

1. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cook in short bursts, stirring in between.
2. Check the syrup’s color and perform tests for brittleness.
3. Stop when the syrup thickens, and proceed with stirring in baking soda and nuts.

Whether you choose the stovetop or microwave, this maple cashew brittle recipe promises a delightful, crunchy treat for all occasions. Enjoy!