Almond Crunch / Croccante

Name: Almond Crunch / Croccante
Ingredients: INGREDIENTS2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cups blanched whole almonds; 3 tablespoons water; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

MAKES ABOUT 3 DOZEN

Croccante, which means cracklings, reminds me of peanut brittle, except that this sweet confection is made from almonds or hazelnuts. I usually buy it at street fairs and outdoor markets in Italy. Croccante is great party food. For gift giving, pile it into a fancy candy dish or decorative jar.

Ingredients

INGREDIENTS2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cups blanched whole almonds
3 tablespoons water
1 1/2 cups sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions

DIRECTIONSBrush a marble slab or cookie sheet with the oil. Place all the remaining ingredients in a heavy nonstick saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring, for about 15 minutes, or until the syrup has turned a deep caramel color and is very foamy; it should register 300°F on a candy thermometer.
Immediately pour the mixture out onto the oiled slab or cookie sheet, spreading it evenly with the spoon. Let cool completely.
Cut the croccante into rough 1-inch pieces with a heavy knife. Store in airtight jars.

This recipe was featured on Season 11 - Episode 1116.