Holly-Jolly Almond Brittle Recipe

Holly-Jolly Almond Brittle Recipe
This festive almond brittle is a crunchy, sweet treat, perfect for holiday gifting or snacking. With the addition of bright red and green candied cherries, it’s a fun twist on classic brittle!
Ingredients (Makes about 1 lb of brittle):
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (150g) almonds, chopped or whole
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup red and green candied cherries, chopped (optional for the "holly-jolly" touch)
Instructions:
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Prepare Your Pan:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
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Cook the Sugar Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, without stirring, until it reaches a golden caramel color.
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Add the Almonds:
- Stir in the almonds and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the almonds are coated in the syrup.
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Add Butter and Baking Soda:
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up due to the baking soda, so be cautious.
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Spread the Brittle:
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and quickly spread it into an even layer using a spatula or spoon.
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Add Candied Cherries:
- Immediately sprinkle the chopped candied cherries over the brittle and gently press them into the surface while the brittle is still hot.
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Cool and Break:
- Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature (about 1 hour). Once cooled, break it into pieces.
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Serve or Store:
- Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips and Variations:
- Nut Variations: Try swapping almonds for pecans, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor.
- Add Spices: For a festive twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg while cooking the sugar syrup.
- Darker Brittle: For a deeper caramel flavor, cook the sugar mixture a bit longer until it reaches a darker amber color, but be careful not to burn it.
Would you like more holiday candy recipes or pairing suggestions for this treat?
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