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Cashew Brittle Holiday Candy Gift

Homemade brittle is one of those classic candies that never goes out of style, and this cashew version takes it up a notch with buttery, rich cashews instead of the usual peanuts. The best part is that once you master the technique (and it's really not as scary as it seems!), you can whip up multiple batches in no time. Package this golden, crunchy candy in mason jars or festive tins, and you've got yourself an impressive gift that costs way less than those fancy gourmet food stores charge.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 20 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • ½ cup water
  • 2½ cups roasted salted cashews
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Generously butter a large baking sheet or line with a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  3. Stir in cashews and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) and turns a light golden color.
  4. Remove from heat immediately and quickly stir in butter, baking soda, vanilla, and salt. The mixture will foam up – this is normal!
  5. Working quickly, pour the hot brittle onto the prepared baking sheet and spread as thin as possible using a buttered spatula or wooden spoon.
  6. Allow to cool completely at room temperature, about 1 hour, then break into pieces. Store in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to keep pieces from sticking together.