Nutty, Crunchy, Sweet & Salty

At your fingertips (literally with the Internet) are all kinds of recipes that go crunch, some because of the addition of nuts, others because of crunchy-oaty goodness. As a result of the baking process is also the crispy, golden brown lusciousness with its delicate crunch. A major source of crunchiness is, of course, the making of or the adding of candy. Then, along with all the nutty crunchiness is the possibility of a tasty treat being sweet, salty or a combination of sweet and salty. Let's go with the latter in all its nutty, crunchy deliciousness!
    
January 26 is...

National Peanut Brittle Day

Where did peanut brittle come from?
It depends on whom you ask!

 

Brittle dates back to ancient cultures where those with access to molasses, sugar or honey produced some form of it. By most accounts, this is probably the first candy ever made. The extra ingredient - peanuts - came much later making this nutty, crunchy, sweet and salty indulgence very popular. The exact origin of the first peanut brittle is uncertain. Southern roots support the most common story although some accounts take the story out of the south, in fact, out of the county altogether, to Celtic roots. There are even reports, as with so many recipes, it evolved as a result of a cook's mistake.

When it comes to making homemade peanut brittle, much like divinity, it can be tricky to make. The atmosphere must be just right! One is advised NOT to attempt making brittle on a humid day. Another tip is to be sure you have FRESH baking soda!

Start out with a classic peanut brittle to learn the dos and don'ts...

With today's modern technology, time can be greatly reduced by cooking it in the microwave...

Love brittle but need a chocolate fix? Try this one...

Get a little creative with cupcakes! These tiny cakes seem to hit the spot better than the whole cake!

Caramel & Peanut Brittle Cupcakes (Recipe)

These gems shine with peanut brittle sparkling on the outside and caramel oozing on the inside!

Pie! Pie! Pie! Hard to beat especially when the pie is an ice cream treat...

Peanut Brittle & Caramel Crunch Ice Cream Pie (Recipe)

The combination of sea salt & peanuts help to up the ante in this salty-sweet treat!

That's all, folks! There are plenty of ideas and recipes on the web. Start lookin' to get cookin' if one of these does not suit your fancy!

Is your mouth watering yet?

yum, yum, yum . . . yummy!