Amish Cashew Crunch

It’s no secret that we have a bit of a sweet tooth around here. And while we like store-bought sweets just as much as the next person, there’s nothing quite like a homemade batch of Amish Cashew Crunch. It’s got everything: a sticky and sweet caramel brittle, nutty cashews, and a hint of salt. It’s perfect for a sweet after-dinner bite and makes an amazing gift. Think about taking some to the host of the annual holiday party or tucking it into a care package for a college student.

We might break this up and sprinkle it over cool vanilla ice cream or maybe drizzle over some melted chocolate, but a treat like this needs no extra adornment to make it taste good. It’s always welcome on the dessert table, and everyone seems to want our recipe. As much as we love all things chocolate, a dessert like this is too good to pass up, and we can guarantee that it will satisfy a sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish Cashew Crunch is a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors that can be enjoyed anytime. It’s incredibly easy to make and uses simple ingredients that come together to create a gourmet treat. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift, it’s sure to win hearts and taste buds alike.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray
• Candy thermometer
• Medium saucepan

Ingredients

• 2 cups cashew halves
• 2 sticks unsalted butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and coat it with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, cook the butter, sugar, and corn syrup over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches 290°F on a candy thermometer, about 10 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the cashews to the mixture and stir until they are well coated.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.
6. Sprinkle with salt and allow it to cool completely before serving.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to use a candy thermometer to get the perfect brittle texture.
• Spread the mixture quickly once poured onto the baking sheet, as it will start to harden fast.
• Allow it to cool completely for the best crunch.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice twist.
• For extra decadence, drizzle some melted chocolate on top after the crunch has cooled.
• Use other nuts like almonds or pecans for a different nutty flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Details will vary based on portion size, but generally includes good fats from cashews and a sweet treat under 200 calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but consider omitting the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

How should I store the Amish Cashew Crunch?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to have a large enough saucepan and baking sheet.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making this Amish Cashew Crunch as much as we do. It’s a simple yet delightful recipe that’s sure to please everyone. Don’t forget to share your experience and how it turned out in the comments below. Happy crunching!