Wow. This Cashew Brittle cracks so loud. I broke a piece, and I laughed.

It is sweet. It is crunchy. The cashews taste rich and warm.

Each bite snaps and melts. The nutty flavor feels so good. I can’t stop nibbling.

So, yeah, let’s make this together. I’ll show you my easy way at home. Grab a pan, and let’s start.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with straightforward steps.
Perfect Balance: Combines sweet, salty, and buttery flavors in every bite.
Customizable: Add a sprinkle of spices or drizzle chocolate to make it your own.
Ideal for Gifting: Homemade treats like this are thoughtful and crowd-pleasing.
No Special Tools Needed: A simple saucepan and a candy thermometer are all you need.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving in, gather these tools for a smooth cooking experience:

Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Prevents uneven cooking and scorching.
Candy Thermometer: Ensures precision for perfect brittle every time.
Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the hot sugar mixture.
Baking Sheet: To spread and cool the brittle.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters when making candy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delectable treat (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

Granulated Sugar (1 cup): The base of the brittle, caramelizing into a golden candy.
Water (1/4 cup): Helps dissolve the sugar evenly during cooking.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and a creamy texture.
Light Corn Syrup (1/4 cup): Prevents crystallization, ensuring a smooth brittle.
Baking Soda (1/4 teaspoon): Aerates the brittle, giving it a light and crisp texture.
Roasted and Salted Cashews (10 ounces): Provide the star flavor and crunch.
Flaky Sea Salt (optional): A finishing touch for a gourmet twist.

Variations for Cashew Brittle

Take this classic recipe up a notch with these fun twists:

Add Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne into the sugar mixture for warmth or heat.
Use Different Nuts: Swap cashews for almonds, pecans, or peanuts, or use a mix.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle the brittle with melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent finish.
Flavor Enhancements: Stir in a splash of vanilla or almond extract after removing the pan from heat.
Seed Crunch: Add sesame seeds or chia seeds for added texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for foolproof Cashew Brittle:

1. Prep Your Workspace

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set it aside.
Measure out all your ingredients; candy-making moves quickly, so you’ll want everything ready.

2. Start the Sugar Mixture

Combine sugar, water, butter, and corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring to allow the mixture to simmer undisturbed.

3. Monitor the Temperature

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
Cook the sugar mixture until it reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage). This ensures the brittle will set properly and have the ideal crunch.

4. Add the Cashews and Baking Soda

Once the sugar mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the pan from heat.
Quickly stir in the baking soda (it will foam slightly—this is normal) and cashews. Work swiftly but carefully to coat the nuts evenly.

5. Spread the Brittle

Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. The thinner you spread it, the crisper it will be.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired, for a touch of elegance.

6. Cool and Break

Allow the brittle to cool completely, about 20-30 minutes.
Once hardened, break it into pieces using your hands or the back of a spoon.

Serving and Presentation

As a Snack: Enjoy it straight from the jar for a sweet pick-me-up.
On Desserts: Use as a topping for ice cream, cakes, or puddings.
Gift-Worthy: Pack brittle into decorative jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift.

How to Store Cashew Brittle

Keep your brittle fresh and crunchy with these tips:

At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Use wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Avoid Humidity: Humid conditions can cause the brittle to become sticky. A dry pantry is ideal.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional value for one serving (based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	120mg
Total Carbohydrates	22g
Sugars	18g
Protein	4g

FAQs About Cashew Brittle

Why did my brittle turn out sticky?

Sticky brittle can result from undercooking the sugar mixture. Ensure it reaches the hard-crack stage (300°F) for the best texture.

Can I make brittle without a candy thermometer?

While a thermometer is the most reliable tool, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. It should harden instantly and snap cleanly.

Can I use raw cashews instead of roasted?

Yes, but for the best flavor, toast them lightly before adding them to the sugar mixture.

How do I clean a sticky saucepan?

Fill the pan with water and bring it to a boil. The hardened sugar will dissolve, making cleanup a breeze.