Spicy Nut Brittle Recipe for a Sweet and Fiery Treat

There’s something truly magical about a crunchy, sweet, and spicy nut brittle that makes it irresistible. This spicy nut brittle recipe combines the perfect crunch of toasted nuts with a fiery kick of chili and warming spices, creating a delightful treat that’s both addictive and unique.

Whether you’re looking for a festive snack, a homemade gift, or a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this brittle will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.

Making nut brittle might seem intimidating at first, but with a bit of patience and the right technique, you’ll master this candy in no time. The balance of heat and sweetness keeps this brittle interesting, while the caramelized sugar provides that signature snap.

Ready to spice up your snack game? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spicy nut brittle recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of nuts and spice offers a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and savory.

The chili powder and cayenne pepper add a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the natural sweetness of the caramelized sugar.

Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize the nut mix based on your preferences, using almonds, pecans, cashews, or even a medley of your favorite nuts.

Plus, the brittle keeps well for weeks, making it perfect for prepping ahead of holidays or special occasions.

Finally, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. With a little attention to detail, you’ll achieve a professional-quality brittle that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet candy shop.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1 cup raw pecans
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 tsp baking soda

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan – for even heat distribution
• Candy thermometer – to monitor sugar temperature accurately
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring
• Baking sheet – to spread the brittle
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – to prevent sticking
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heatproof bowl – for mixing baking soda

Instructions

1. Prepare your baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside. This will help the brittle release easily once cooled.
2. Toast the nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds, pecans, and cashews until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the caramel base: In your heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir gently to combine but avoid splashing the sides.
4. Cook the sugar mixture: Attach your candy thermometer to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat without stirring. Boil until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), around 10-15 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
5. Add butter and vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Mix in the nuts: Immediately fold in the toasted nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the caramel.
7. Incorporate baking soda: In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda with a teaspoon of water, then stir this mixture into the caramel-nut mix. The brittle will foam and lighten in color—this reaction creates air bubbles that make the brittle crisp and light.
8. Spread the brittle: Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula, quickly spread it out into an even layer about ¼ inch thick. Be careful as the mixture is very hot.
9. Cool completely: Allow the brittle to cool and harden at room temperature, about 1-2 hours. Once set, break it into pieces of your desired size.
10. Store: Store your spicy nut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three weeks.

Tips & Variations

“The key to perfect brittle is patience and precision. Don’t rush the sugar cooking process, and use a candy thermometer to avoid burning.”

Adjusting the spice level: Feel free to tweak the cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your heat tolerance. For a milder brittle, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether.

Nut alternatives: Swap the nut varieties for walnuts, hazelnuts, or even pumpkin seeds to change the flavor and texture.

Add a twist: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or cinnamon into the sugar mixture. You can also drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled brittle for a decadent finish.

Make it vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and ensure your corn syrup is vegan-friendly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Spicy nut brittle is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it as a snack alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

It also pairs beautifully with cheese boards, where the sweet and spicy contrast complements creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

For a festive touch, break the brittle into smaller pieces and package it in decorative jars or cellophane bags as homemade gifts. You can also crush the brittle and sprinkle it over ice cream or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.

Finally, consider using it as a topping for salads that include fruit and nuts, adding a sweet and spicy crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Conclusion

This spicy nut brittle recipe is a fantastic way to add excitement to a traditional candy favorite. With the perfect balance of sweet caramelization, crunchy nuts, and a kick of heat, it delivers a snack that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly bold.

Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, whether to enjoy solo or share with friends and family.

Don’t be intimidated by candy making—this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps that anyone can follow. Plus, the customization options mean you can tailor the flavor to your liking, whether you want it hotter, nuttier, or with a hint of chocolate.

Give it a try and elevate your snack game with this irresistible spicy nut brittle!

For more delicious treats, check out our Salted Caramel Pecan Brittle, Spiced Pumpkin Seed Snack, and Honey Roasted Nuts recipes.

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