Description
Salted Almond Brittle
This delightful Salted Almond Brittle recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional caramelized candy, inspired by the flavors of Mexico. Unlike the usual nut brittle, this version features a touch of honey and vanilla, giving it a distinctively aromatic flavor. Passed down to me through a video call from a Mexican family, this recipe—also known as “Palanquetas de Cacahuate”—is usually made with peanuts but works wonderfully with almonds. Perfect for a nostalgic, sweet crunch that brings back fond memories.
2 cups roasted almonds
2 cups sugar
1 cup honey
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roast almonds lightly, then set aside.
3. Melt sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously.
4. When sugar looks like honey, add honey and stir.
5. Add vanilla and almonds, mix well.
6. Pour onto baking sheet, sprinkle salt, and let cool.
7. Break into pieces once hardened.
Prep Time: 30 min
Kcal: 150 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly roast 2 cups of almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then set aside.
2. Caramelize the Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 2 cups of sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the sugar melts completely and turns a light amber color, resembling the consistency of honey.
3. Combine with Honey: Carefully add 1 cup of honey to the melted sugar. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until fully combined.
4. Incorporate Flavors & Nuts: Remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the pinch of salt, followed by all the roasted almonds. Ensure every almond is thoroughly coated.
5. Shape and Cool: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle an additional flaky sea salt on top. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until hard.
6. Break and Store: Once hardened, lift the brittle slab and break it into irregular pieces by hand or with the back of a knife. Store in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this brittle as an elegant after-dinner treat alongside coffee or dessert wines. Crumble it over vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a sophisticated topping. Package pieces in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.
How-to Summary
Create this brittle by caramelizing sugar, blending in honey, and coating roasted almonds with vanilla and salt. The mixture is spread thin, cooled until hard, and broken into pieces for a perfect sweet-and-salty snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts? Absolutely. While almonds are used here, traditional peanuts (cacahuates) work perfectly, as do pecans or cashews.
Why is my brittle chewy instead of hard? This usually means the sugar-honey mixture was not cooked to a high enough temperature. Ensure it reaches the hard crack stage (approx. 300°F/150°C).
How do I store it to keep it crisp? Store in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper layers. Moisture is the enemy of crisp brittle.
Can I double the recipe? It’s not recommended. Candy making requires precise temperature control, and doubling can lead to uneven cooking. Make separate batches instead.
Is a candy thermometer necessary? While you can rely on visual cues (amber color), a thermometer is highly recommended for consistent, foolproof results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid stirring the sugar once it begins to melt intensely, as this can cause crystallization. Do not use a wet spoon or allow steam into the pan. Never pour the hot mixture onto a cold or damp surface, as it will seize. Do not attempt to spread the mixture too thin after pouring, as it will set almost instantly.
Conclusion
This Salted Almond Brittle is more than a candy; it’s a bridge to tradition and shared culinary heritage. With its perfect balance of sweet honey, toasted nuts, and savory salt, it delivers an unforgettable crunch. Mastering this simple technique opens the door to endless variations, making it a cherished recipe for any occasion.