Grandma Myrna’s Honey-Walnut Brittle

Grandma Myrna’s Honey-Walnut Brittle: A Sweet and Crunchy Delight

Welcome to a timeless classic straight from Grandma Myrna’s kitchen – Honey-Walnut Brittle. This irresistible treat combines the rich flavor of honey with the satisfying crunch of walnuts, creating a confection that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or looking for a homemade gift idea, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Grandma Myrna’s Honey-Walnut Brittle!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
    • Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can experiment with different nuts like almonds, pecans, or cashews to create your own unique variation of this brittle.
  2. How long does the brittle stay fresh?
    • When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the brittle can stay fresh for up to two weeks. Be sure to keep it away from moisture to maintain its crispness.
  3. Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?
    • Yes, you can make this recipe without a candy thermometer by following visual cues. The mixture should reach the hard crack stage, where it turns golden brown and hardens when dropped into cold water.
  4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
    • While honey is used as the sweetener in this recipe, making it non-vegan, you can substitute it with agave syrup or maple syrup to create a vegan version of the brittle.
  5. Can I add other flavorings to the brittle?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with additional flavorings like orange zest, cardamom, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a modern twist on this classic recipe.

Now that we’ve covered some common questions, let’s gather our ingredients and get started!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Honey
  • 3/4 tsp Baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Walnuts
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside. This will prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan.
  2. Toast the Walnuts:
    • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts until they are fragrant and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir them frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove the walnuts from the skillet and set them aside to cool.
  3. Prepare the Honey Mixture:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, cinnamon, and salt over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Cook the Mixture:
    • Once the sugar has dissolved, add the butter to the saucepan and continue stirring until it melts completely. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and allow the mixture to cook, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (150°C), also known as the hard crack stage.
  5. Add the Walnuts:
    • Once the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the toasted walnuts and vanilla extract until they are evenly coated.
  6. Add the Baking Soda:
    • Working quickly, sprinkle the baking soda over the mixture and gently stir it in. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up when the baking soda is added.
  7. Pour and Spread the Brittle:
    • Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to quickly spread it out into an even layer, working as fast as possible before it begins to harden.
  8. Cool and Break Apart:
    • Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is firm and hardened. Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a knife.
  9. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once the brittle is completely cooled and broken into pieces, it’s ready to enjoy! Serve it as a sweet treat on its own, or use it to add crunch and flavor to desserts like ice cream or yogurt.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Customize the Nuts: Feel free to swap out the walnuts for your favorite nuts or a combination of nuts such as almonds, pecans, or cashews.
  • Add Dried Fruit: For an extra burst of sweetness and texture, add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots to the brittle mixture before pouring it onto the baking sheet.
  • Experiment with Spices: Get creative with your flavorings by adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to the honey mixture for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Keto Version and Low Carb Variation:

  • Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this brittle, substitute the honey and sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the original recipe.
  • Low Carb Variation: For a low-carb option, reduce the amount of honey and sugar used in the recipe, or replace them with low-carb alternatives like stevia or xylitol.

Grandma Myrna’s Honey-Walnut Brittle is a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With its crunchy texture, rich flavor, and delightful aroma, this homemade brittle is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for holiday gatherings, special celebrations, or simply as a delicious snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and channel your inner candy maker as you whip up a batch of this irresistible honey-walnut brittle. Enjoy every crunchy, sweet bite!