There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating homemade treats that burst with flavor and texture, and this Classic Cashew Brittle is a prime example. Picture yourself in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of caramelizing sugar filling the air, as crispy, golden pieces of goodness come to life right before your eyes. This treat beautifully balances sweet and salty, thanks to the rich, buttery essence of roasted cashews.

I discovered this recipe during a quest to escape the monotony of fast food snacks, and it has since become my go-to for satisfying cravings or impressing friends at gatherings. The best part? This irresistibly crunchy cashew brittle comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. Whether shared as a thoughtful gift during the holidays or enjoyed on a cozy movie night, you’ll find that this delight is not only gluten-free but also irresistibly simple to make, proving that homemade treats truly are the best.

Why Is Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle a Must-Try?

Easy to Follow: Creating this brittle requires just a few simple steps, making it accessible even for beginners.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet caramel and salty cashews delivers a taste sensation that will have you coming back for more.

Versatile Treat: Customize your batch with different nuts or spices, ensuring each creation is uniquely yours.

Perfect for Gifting: Cut into charming pieces, it makes an excellent homemade gift for friends and family during special occasions.

Quick and Efficient: With minimal prep time, you’ll have this delectable treat ready to enjoy in no time. If you’re craving more sweet recipes, be sure to check out our collection for more delightful ideas!

Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle Ingredients

For the Brittle
• Granulated Sugar – The essential sweetener that caramelizes beautifully to create that perfect brittle structure.
• Light Corn Syrup – Prevents crystallization; for a smoother texture, glucose syrup is a great substitute.
• Roasted Cashew Halves – The star of the show! Make sure they’re toasted for maximum flavor, or try using peanuts for a different nutty twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; can be swapped with coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; while optional, it adds much to the overall taste experience.
• Baking Soda – Provides that light, crunchy texture; a must for achieving the classic brittle characteristic.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness; feel free to omit it if you prefer a less salty flavor.

For Storage
• Airtight Container – Store your cashew brittle in one to keep it fresh for up to two weeks.

This irresistibly crunchy cashew brittle is not only gluten-free but also perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings! Happy cooking!

How to Make Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Prepare the Sheet: Start by spraying a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat it in the oven to keep the brittle workable.
Mix Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture begins to boil.
Boil to Perfection: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches a deep amber color, about 300°F. Watch for that luscious, caramel-like transformation!
Add Flavoring: Carefully remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda until well combined. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious!
Incorporate Cashews: Gently fold in the toasted cashew halves until they’re evenly coated with the caramel mixture, creating an enticing combination of flavors.
Spread Mixture: Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into a thin layer with a spatula. This ensures that the brittle will be crispy.
Cool and Break: Let the brittle cool completely before breaking it into delightful pieces for snacking or sharing.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling for an extra layer of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Preheat Thoroughly: Always use a preheated baking sheet to ensure the mixture remains workable and prevents sticking.
Avoid Sticky Situations: Liberally spray all tools and bowls with non-stick spray to make cleanup easier and prevent the brittle from adhering.
Work Fast: After adding baking soda, work quickly—this mixture sets rapidly, and you want to achieve the perfect spread for crunchy cashew brittle.
Thin Layer Magic: Aim for a thin layer when spreading the mixture on the baking sheet; this will guarantee a light, crispy texture when cooled.
Watch the Heat: Use a candy thermometer to avoid overcooking. The goal is a deep amber color without burning, leading to a delicious, crunchy end result.

What to Serve with Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle?

The delightful crunch of cashew brittle is sure to elevate any gathering or cozy night in; why not enhance your experience with tasty pairings?

Rich Dark Chocolate: The bittersweet notes of dark chocolate beautifully contrast the sweetness of the brittle, creating a heavenly duo.
Creamy Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean or caramel ice cream brings a velvety texture, perfectly balancing the crunchy candied treat.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Slices of crisp apples or juicy pears add a refreshing element that complements the nuttiness of the brittle.
Cheese Board: Consider a selection of aged cheeses, like sharp cheddar or gouda, to provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet brittle.
Sparkling Wine: A bubbly glass of Prosecco or a fruity rosé offers a celebratory touch that pairs wonderfully with crunchy delights.
Buttery Popcorn: Enjoy some popcorn drizzled with melted butter; it’s a satisfying crunch that mirrors the brittle while adding a savory twist.

Each pairing enriches the experience of your Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle, transforming a sweet treat into a memorable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Room Temperature: Store your cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain its delightful crunch and flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a humid environment, it’s best to keep the brittle in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container for up to one month to protect it from moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your cashew brittle in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by layers of parchment paper, for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: If your brittle loses its crunch, briefly re-bake it at a low temperature (200°F) for about 5-10 minutes, just to crisp it back up!

Make Ahead Options

Making Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle ahead of time is a fantastic way to save you precious moments on busy days! You can prepare the brittle mixture and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Simply follow the cooking steps until the brittle cools, then store it whole for easier snacking later. If you prefer, you can break it into pieces a day before serving to make it even more accessible. Just remember, to maintain its delightful crunchiness, keep it away from moisture and heat. When it’s time to enjoy, serve it as is or add a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant touch—your guests will love it just as much!

Cashew Brittle Variations

There’s no limit to how you can personalize this scrumptious treat to suit your tastes and cravings.

Nutty Medley: Swap cashews for a mix of nuts like almonds, peanuts, or pecans for diverse textures and flavors. Each nut brings its own unique twist to the classic brittle.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the caramel mixture for a surprising zesty kick. This unexpected warmth will create an exciting balance of sweet and spicy!
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cool, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the brittle for an indulgent flavor contrast. This adds a delightful richness that elevates the treat even further.
Cinnamon Twist: Incorporate a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warming, aromatic flavor reminiscent of sweet holiday treats. This subtle spice can turn every bite into a festive delight.
Maple Magic: Substitute the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness. The rich flavor of maple truly transforms this brittle into a one-of-a-kind indulgence.
Coconut Infusion: Stir in some shredded coconut into the mixture for a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy cashews. This addition will bring a tropical twist and delightful aroma!
Coffee Essence: Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules into the sugar mixture for an energizing mocha flavor. This can be the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Fruit Flavors: After removing the brittle from heat, try folding in some dried cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast against the sweet, nutty goodness. This little burst of fruit adds not only flavor but vibrant color as well.

Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cashews for my brittle?
Absolutely! When choosing cashews, look for whole roasted cashew halves without any dark spots or signs of rancidity. Fresh cashews should be firm and have a pleasant, nutty aroma. I often recommend buying them in bulk for better freshness.

How should I store my cashew brittle to keep it fresh?
To maintain the delightful crunch of your cashew brittle, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the humidity is high, keeping it in the fridge is best. Just ensure it is properly sealed to prevent moisture.

Can I freeze my cashew brittle? How?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze your cashew brittle in a freezer-safe container or bag, with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. This way, it can last up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature.

What should I do if my cashew brittle turns out too hard?
If your brittle is too hard, it may have been cooked to too high a temperature. The next time, use a candy thermometer and aim for that magical deep amber color around 300°F, taking it off the heat just when it reaches that mark. You can also try breaking it into smaller pieces, which can make it easier to enjoy!

Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind?
Of course! This cashew brittle contains nuts and sugar, which can trigger allergies for some people. If you’re serving it to a group, be sure to ask about allergies. For a gluten-free treat, rest assured that this recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the cashews with other nuts?
Very! You may experiment with other nuts like almonds, peanuts, or even pecans for different flavors. Just be sure to toast them to amplify their natural nutty goodness!