This Sesame Brittle Recipe combines honey, sugar, butter, and toasted sesame seeds for a perfectly crisp, golden treat with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla. Quick to prepare and irresistibly crunchy!
In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan (approximately 1 ½ quarts), combine the sugar, honey, salt, nutmeg, and water. Place over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and forms a smooth mixture.
Incorporate the sesame seeds
Add the raw sesame seeds to the syrup. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. Continue heating until the mixture turns a rich amber color, about 5–10 minutes. If using a candy thermometer, the temperature should reach approximately 300°F (150°C).
Add flavor and texture
Once the desired color or temperature is reached, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated and the mixture becomes glossy. Add the baking soda and stir quickly; the mixture will foam slightly as it reacts.
Shape and cool
Pour the hot mixture onto a Silpat mat or a lightly buttered metal baking sheet. Use a metal spatula to spread the brittle evenly into a thin layer. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes, or until fully hardened.
Break and serve
Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces of your desired size. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
This Sesame Brittle Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or wheat-based ingredients. However, always ensure that your sesame seeds, vanilla extract, and baking soda are certified gluten-free to avoid potential cross-contamination.