We’ve always been fans of cashew brittle and our Amish-inspired recipe brings that rustic charm straight to your kitchen. Drawing from the simple traditions of Amish communities this crunchy treat combines roasted cashews with a golden caramel base for pure delight.
It’s perfect for holiday gifting or everyday snacking and we’re excited to share how easy it is to make. With just a few steps you’ll create a homemade favorite that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
To craft our Cashew Brittle Recipe Amish, we start by assembling high-quality ingredients that blend roasted cashews with a simple caramel base for that authentic, rustic flavor. Below, we list them in the order used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- Cashews: 2 cups, roasted and roughly chopped – These form the star of our Cashew Brittle Recipe Amish, providing a nutty crunch that complements the caramel perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup – Used as the foundation for our golden caramel, ensuring a smooth, sweet base.
- Light corn syrup: ½ cup – Added next to prevent crystallization and achieve that ideal glossy texture.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), softened – Incorporates richness and helps bind the mixture for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon – Stirred in just before pouring to create airiness and that signature brittle snap.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Infuses a warm, aromatic note right before the mixture sets.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, fine sea salt preferred – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of our treat.
For optimal results, we recommend using freshly roasted cashews to maximize their flavor in this easy Cashew Brittle Recipe Amish. If any substitutions are needed, note that altering measurements could affect the final texture—keep them exact for the best outcome.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Cashew Brittle Recipe Amish successfully, we recommend gathering essential tools that ensure precise and safe cooking. These items help us achieve the perfect golden caramel base and rustic crunch without complications.
Here’s a detailed list of the equipment we’ll need, organized by the sequence of use in the recipe process:
- Heavy-bottomed Saucepan: A 2-quart size works best for melting sugar and corn syrup evenly, preventing scorching as we build the caramel foundation.
- Candy Thermometer: This is crucial for monitoring temperatures accurately—aim for 300°F (hard crack stage)—to guarantee that crisp texture we love in Amish-style brittle.
- Baking Sheet: Use a rimmed 9×13-inch sheet to pour and spread the hot mixture, allowing it to cool into a uniform layer.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Line the baking sheet with this to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, preserving the nuts’ roasted cashew flavor.
- Heat-Resistant Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients without melting or warping, ensuring smooth incorporation of butter and vanilla.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Standard sets for accurately measuring our ingredients like sugar and cashews, building on the precise quantities outlined earlier.
By having these tools ready, we can seamlessly transition from mixing ingredients to creating a batch of this irresistible treat.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create this irresistible cashew brittle. Our process ensures a perfect balance of crunchy texture and rich, caramelized flavor.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we begin cooking, let’s organize our ingredients for efficiency. Start by measuring out 2 cups of roasted and roughly chopped cashews—freshly roasted ones enhance the nutty aroma and crunch. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of light corn syrup, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt to create a smooth base mixture.
Next, soften ½ cup of unsalted butter by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving it briefly—ensure it’s pliable but not melted for even incorporation. Measure 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into small containers for quick access. This preparation allows us to move seamlessly into cooking, minimizing any delays and maximizing the golden, toffee-like scent that will soon fill your kitchen.
Cook the Brittle
We now heat our mixture in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula to prevent burning. Add the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and fine sea salt to the pan, and cook until the mixture reaches a bubbling, amber hue—use a candy thermometer to monitor it hitting 300°F (hard crack stage) for that signature brittle snap.
Once the mixture hits temperature, remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda—watch as it foams up, creating a light, airy texture. Quickly fold in the roasted cashews for an even distribution, then pour the hot mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step captures the irresistible aroma of toasted nuts mingling with caramel, ensuring each piece delivers a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.
Cool and Break
Allow the poured brittle to cool on the baking sheet at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until it hardens completely—you’ll notice the surface turning glossy and firm as it sets. Once cooled, use a sturdy knife or your hands to break it into irregular pieces, aiming for bite-sized shards that showcase the crisp, golden edges and embedded cashews.
For storage, place the broken pieces in an airtight container; they stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, though this treat rarely lasts that long in our experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we perfect our Amish cashew brittle recipe, making it ahead of time allows us to enjoy its crisp caramel goodness and nutty crunch without last-minute hassle, ideal for holiday gifting or busy gatherings. We recommend preparing the brittle up to two weeks in advance to preserve its signature texture and flavor.
Preparing and Storing Ahead
Follow these steps to make and store our cashew brittle efficiently:
- Prepare the brittle as directed: Once we’ve poured the hot mixture onto the lined baking sheet and let it cool completely, break it into pieces as outlined in the instructions.
- Cool thoroughly: Allow the brittle to harden at room temperature for at least 1 hour, ensuring it reaches a brittle snap for the best sensory experience with its golden hue and roasted cashew aroma.
- Store in an airtight container: Transfer the pieces to a clean, airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent humidity from softening the texture.
Storage Tips and Duration
To maintain the Amish cashew brittle‘s irresistible quality, proper storage is key. We’ve summarized the storage options and their durations in the table below for quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature | Up to 2 weeks | Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to retain the crisp texture. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 weeks | Wrap pieces in parchment paper first to avoid moisture absorption, which can dull the caramel flavor. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Place in a freezer-safe bag or container; thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to restore the original crunch. |
If the brittle softens over time, we suggest a quick refresh by spreading pieces on a baking sheet and warming them in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes—restoring that satisfying snap without compromising the rich, toasted cashew taste. Always check for freshness before serving to ensure our Amish cashew brittle recipe delights every time.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our Amish-inspired cashew brittle recipe
It’s a timeless treat that brings warmth and crunch to any occasion
Give it a try and you’ll discover how simple ingredients create lasting memories
We can’t wait to hear about your brittle-making adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cashew brittle and where does this recipe come from?
Cashew brittle is a crunchy, caramelized treat made with roasted cashews and a golden sugar base, inspired by Amish traditions. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients for a rustic snack perfect for gifting or everyday enjoyment, offering a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors.
What ingredients are needed for this Amish cashew brittle recipe?
You’ll need 2 cups roasted and chopped cashews, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. Use fresh ingredients for the best texture and flavor, ensuring a perfectly balanced, irresistible brittle.
How do I make cashew brittle at home?
Start by preparing ingredients, then cook sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan while stirring constantly until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F). Add butter, vanilla, and baking soda, mix in cashews, pour onto a lined baking sheet, and let cool. Break into pieces once hardened—ready in about 30 minutes of active time.
What equipment is required to prepare cashew brittle?
You’ll need a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heating, a candy thermometer for accurate temperature monitoring, a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a heat-resistant spatula or spoon for stirring. Measuring cups and spoons ensure precise quantities for a smooth process.
Can I make cashew brittle ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to two weeks in advance for easy gifting or events. Follow the recipe, cool completely, and store in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes it ideal for busy holidays, maintaining freshness and crunch with proper storage.
How should I store homemade cashew brittle?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, in the fridge for up to four weeks, or freeze for up to three months. If it softens, refresh by warming in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore its snap.
How long does cashew brittle last, and can I freeze it?
Cashew brittle lasts up to two weeks at room temperature, four weeks refrigerated, or three months frozen. Thaw frozen brittle at room temperature and enjoy. Always use an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy for the best taste.