Cashew Brittle Recipe

Crunchy, buttery, and irresistibly nutty, Cashew Brittle is the perfect homemade treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. This golden confection, with its delicate caramelized coating and rich cashew pieces, is surprisingly easy to make—and even easier to devour. Perfect as a holiday gift or a satisfying snack, this recipe is a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Cashew Brittle

1. Quick and Simple

With the help of a microwave, you can whip up this brittle in no time—no candy thermometer required!

2. Perfectly Crunchy

The combination of sugar, corn syrup, and a touch of baking soda ensures a light, crisp texture that’s easy to break into bite-sized pieces.

3. Versatile Treat

Pack it in gift boxes, serve it at parties, or keep it on hand for a sweet snack—it’s ideal for any occasion.

Pro Tips for the Best Cashew Brittle

• Use a Heated Pan: Warming your baking sheet in the oven makes spreading the hot brittle mixture much easier, preventing it from hardening too quickly.
• Spray Everything: Non-stick cooking spray on your tools and bowls is essential to keep this sticky mixture manageable.
• Work Quickly: Once the baking soda is added, the mixture foams up and sets fast. Be prepared to pour and spread it immediately.
• Thin is Best: Spreading the mixture thinly creates that perfect brittle texture. Don’t worry if it’s uneven; the rustic look adds charm!

How to Toast Cashews for Extra Flavor

Toasting the cashews beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth to the brittle. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cashew halves on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re golden and fragrant.
4. Let them cool completely before adding to the brittle mixture.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Cashew Brittle

Cashew Brittle isn’t just for snacking! Here are some fun and inventive ways to incorporate it into other treats:

• Ice Cream Topping: Crush the brittle into small pieces and sprinkle it over vanilla, chocolate, or caramel ice cream for a sweet, nutty crunch.
• Dessert Garnish: Use shards of brittle to decorate cakes, cupcakes, or cheesecake for an elegant touch.
• Trail Mix Upgrade: Add broken pieces of brittle to a mix of dried fruit, pretzels, and chocolate chips for a decadent snack.
• Homemade Candy Bars: Layer crushed brittle with melted chocolate and nuts in a mold to create your own candy bars.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve brittle alongside a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful sweet and savory combo.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep it Crisp: Add a silica gel packet or a small piece of parchment paper to absorb moisture if you live in a humid climate.
• Freezing Option: Wrap brittle tightly in parchment or wax paper, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

• Nut Mix: Swap out cashews for peanuts, almonds, or a combination of your favorite nuts.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the brittle for an extra indulgence.
• Spicy-Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the sugar mixture for a fiery twist.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle while it’s still warm for a gourmet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a microwave?
Yes! Heat the sugar and corn syrup mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches a light amber color. Then follow the recipe as directed.

Why do I need baking soda?
The baking soda reacts with the sugar mixture, creating bubbles that give the brittle its signature light, crispy texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger microwave-safe bowl and work quickly when pouring the brittle onto the baking sheet.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Cashew Brittle is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors with a delightful crunch. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to recipe for gifting or satisfying your own cravings. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own with a variety of flavors and toppings.

Looking for more sweet inspirations? Check out these recipes:

• Honey Roasted Almond Clusters
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark
• Cinnamon Sugar Candied Pecans

Let us know how your Cashew Brittle turns out! Share your creations in the comments or tag us on Pinterest. Enjoy your crispy, nutty masterpiece! 🥜✨