Almond Brittle Recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards

I love bringing a touch of homemade magic into our everyday, especially when it’s as simple as this! The irresistible crunch and sweet-salty balance of our homemade almond brittle recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards make it a true family favorite. This easy, family-friendly almond brittle recipe is perfect for busy parents looking for quick dessert ideas or a thoughtful, edible gift. I often whip up a batch on a quiet afternoon to surprise the kids after school, or for an easy snack for my husband.

Ingredient Spotlight and Why They Matter

For this incredible almond brittle recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards, you’ll need just a few key components. Each plays a vital role in achieving that perfect sweet-salty crunch:

• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g). Forms the sweet base and crisp structure.
• Water: 1/4 cup (60ml). Helps dissolve sugar for even cooking.
• Light Corn Syrup: 1/2 cup (120ml). Prevents crystallization, ensuring smooth, clear brittle.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113g), cut into pieces. Adds richness and a golden hue. (Or a good quality stick vegan butter for a dairy-free option).
• Raw Almonds: 1 cup (120g). Provides classic crunch and nutty flavor. Use fresh, high-quality almonds. (Pecans or cashews also work wonderfully).
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Enhances overall warmth and aroma; a premium vanilla elevates the taste.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon (5g). Creates tiny air bubbles for the brittle’s signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Amber Sea Salt Shards: 1-2 teaspoons. The finishing touch for beautiful visual appeal and a burst of salty contrast. For a healthier option, choose a gourmet sea salt.

Opting for organic ingredients like sugar and butter can enhance the flavor profile. Fresh, good quality almonds are essential for the best homemade almond brittle experience.

Easy Cooking Instructions for Amber Sea Salt Almond Brittle

1. Prep Your Station: Line a large 10×15 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Gather all ingredients measured and within arm’s reach – speed is absolutely key once the sugar mixture is hot.
2. Melt the Base: In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1/2 cup light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Boil to Temperature: Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches exactly 300°F (149°C) – the ‘hard crack’ stage. This typically takes 10-15 minutes, and the mixture will transform into a beautiful amber color. If it doesn’t reach temperature, your brittle will be chewy; keep cooking carefully until 300°F.
4. Stir in Flavor: Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup raw almonds until fully incorporated. The mixture will bubble vigorously and start to thicken. I find this part goes smoother if the butter is softened slightly.
5. Aerate and Pour: Swiftly stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon baking soda. The mixture will puff up and become lighter in color and texture. Immediately, pour the hot almond brittle onto your prepared baking sheet.
6. Spread and Salt: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the brittle into a thin, even layer, aiming for about 1/4-inch thickness. While still very hot, generously sprinkle the amber sea salt shards over the top. For a truly irresistible almond brittle recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards, don’t be shy with the salt!
7. Cool and Break: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, undisturbed, for about 1-2 hours until it is fully hardened and brittle to the touch. Once firm, break the impressive sheet into irregular, delicious shards of this amazing almond brittle. For a thinner, crispier brittle, spread it more quickly and broadly after pouring. You can slightly reduce the sugar amount for a less sweet version, but be mindful it affects texture.

Remember, hot sugar is extremely dangerous; always exercise extreme caution and consider wearing long sleeves to protect your skin from potential splatters when making this easy dessert. Avoid making brittle on very humid days, as moisture can make it sticky.

Everyday Uses and Make-Ahead Convenience

Where This Delightful Brittle Fits In

• Family Meals: A fantastic after-dinner treat or satisfying snack.
• Gatherings: Elevate any dessert spread with homemade Amber Sea Salt Shards.
• Lunch Boxes: A sweet surprise for kids and adults, a thoughtful addition.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Shards

• Crushed Topping: Sprinkle over ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal.
• Coffee or Tea Pairing: A delightful accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage.
• Edible Gifts: Package this almond brittle recipe into pretty bags for gifting.

Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Enjoyment

• Batch Cooking: Easily double the recipe for a larger yield.
• Storage: Store cooled brittle in an airtight container at room temp for 2-3 weeks, away from humidity.
• Reheating: Not applicable; freezing can compromise crisp texture.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Advantages of Homemade Brittle

Ingredient Control & Mindful Indulgence

Making your own almond brittle recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards gives you full control over ingredients, avoiding unwanted additives. Enjoying a satisfying homemade treat in moderation perfectly supports a balanced lifestyle.

Dietary & Lifestyle Fit

• Naturally Gluten-Free: Check labels for cross-contamination.
• Vegetarian Friendly: A delicious treat for most vegetarian diets.
• Versatile Value: This brittle makes an easy edible gift and a quick, sweet & salty snack.

Why This Recipe Helps You Save Time and Money

Simplified Cooking & Efficiency

This almond brittle recipe streamlines your kitchen routine, requiring minimal active time and mostly a one-pan cooking method, simplifying clean-up. I often find myself whipping up a batch while dinner is cooking, a simple way to get a special treat without extra fuss.

Budget-Friendly & Family Appeal

Using common pantry staples, it’s far more cost-effective to make this gourmet brittle at home. This universally loved treat delights all ages, making it a truly family-friendly favorite.

Convenience for Busy Lives

Easily add all the ingredients for your Amber Sea Salt Shards to your regular grocery delivery order for ultimate convenience.

Smart Tips, Adjustments, and Special Notes

Upgrades for Flavor and Presentation

• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
• Spice It Up: Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper with the baking soda for a subtle, warming kick.

Adjustments for Your Preference

• Nut Variations: Experiment with pecans, cashews, or a mix of nuts if preferred.
• Salt Level: Adjust the amount of amber sea salt to your personal taste.

Safety and Allergy-Friendly Tweaks

This recipe contains nuts and is not suitable for nut-allergy sufferers. Always keep children away from hot sugar and exercise caution during preparation.

Common Questions About Amber Sea Salt Almond Brittle

Is this almond brittle recipe good for a low-carb diet?

This traditional almond brittle recipe is sugar-based and, therefore, not low-carb. While some specific sugar substitutes might work for a modified version, they would significantly alter the brittle’s classic texture.

Can I freeze this almond brittle for meal prep?

Freezing is generally not recommended for brittle, as humidity can make it sticky and compromise its crunch. For best results, store in an airtight container at room temperature.

What are the best healthy sides to serve with almond brittle?

To create a balanced treat, I love pairing my homemade Amber Sea Salt Shards with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a simple glass of milk also makes a lovely accompaniment.

How long does homemade almond brittle last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity, this brittle typically stays fresh and wonderfully crunchy for 2-3 weeks. It’s a great make-ahead snack.

Why did my almond brittle turn out chewy instead of crunchy?

This usually happens if the sugar mixture didn’t reach the full 300°F ‘hard crack’ stage or if there was too much humidity during the cooling process. Precision is key for perfect crunch.

What’s the best way to break almond brittle into pieces?

Once completely cooled and hardened on your baking sheet, use the blunt side of a heavy knife or a small kitchen mallet. Gently tap to create those beautiful, irregular shards.

Conclusion

Our easy almond brittle recipe Amber Sea Salt Shards is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an easy win for your kitchen, bringing joy, crunch, and that perfect sweet-salty balance to your family table. I know you’ll love the delicious results! Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for your next craving or add the ingredients to your next grocery order.

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