Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup chopped cashews
- 1 cup chopped pitted prunes
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 300°F.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cashews, prunes, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the brittle and spread it out evenly.
8. Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature.
9. Once the brittle has hardened, break it into pieces and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
5. Temperature:
Cooking temperature: Medium-high heat
Cooling temperature: Room temperature
Serving size:
Makes about 12 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Total fat: 13g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 31g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of cashews, you can use almonds or peanuts.
- Instead of prunes, you can use dried apricots or figs.
- Instead of semisweet chocolate chips, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Use white chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brittle mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the brittle reaches the correct temperature.
- Stir the brittle mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Storage instructions:
Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The brittle does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the brittle on a platter or in a decorative bowl.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Pairings:
Serve the brittle with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
The brittle can be served as a dessert on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the brittle is too hard, it may have been cooked for too long.
- If the brittle is too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
Food history:
Brittle is a type of candy that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East and was brought to Europe by the Crusaders.
Flavor profiles:
The brittle has a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of chocolate.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the brittle as a dessert or as a snack.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Chocolatey