California brittle sees are a popular treat that has been enjoyed by many people for decades. This sweet and crunchy candy is made with sugar, butter, and nuts, and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about California brittle sees, including their history, recipe, and tips on how to make them at home.
Table of Contents
What Are California Brittle Sees?
California brittle sees are a type of candy that is made by cooking sugar, butter, and nuts until they caramelize and harden. The candy is then broken into small pieces and served as a sweet and crunchy snack. The most common type of nut used in California brittle sees is almonds, but other nuts such as pecans, walnuts, and cashews can also be used.
History of California Brittle Sees
California brittle sees have been around since the early 1900s and were first made by a candy maker named Charles See. See had a candy shop in Los Angeles and was known for his high-quality candies, including his famous chocolate-covered almonds. One day, See decided to experiment with a new candy recipe that he thought would be perfect for the warm California climate. He came up with the recipe for California brittle sees, which quickly became a hit with locals and tourists alike.
How to Make California Brittle Sees
Making California brittle sees is relatively easy, although it does require some patience and attention to detail. Here is a simple recipe that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
- Add the sliced almonds to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
- Remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so be careful not to burn yourself.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Let the candy cool completely, then break it into small pieces.
- Store the California brittle sees in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips for Making Perfect California Brittle Sees
Making California brittle sees can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the right temperature.
- Stir the mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Add the nuts at the right time to prevent them from overcooking.
- Be careful when adding the vanilla extract and baking soda, as the mixture will bubble up and can burn you.
- Let the candy cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Question and Answer About California Brittle Sees
Q: Are California brittle sees gluten-free?
A: Yes, California brittle sees are gluten-free as long as the ingredients used are gluten-free. Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure that they do not contain any gluten.
Q: How long do California brittle sees last?
A: California brittle sees can last for several weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
A: Yes, you can use other nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or cashews to make California brittle sees.
Response of People Who Know California Brittle Sees
People who have tried California brittle sees often rave about their sweet and crunchy texture. Many people appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of making them at home. Some people prefer to buy them from candy shops such as See’s Candies, which is still in business today and sells a variety of high-quality candies, including their famous California brittle sees.
Nutrition Facts
| Amount per serving | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 65mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 4g |
California brittle sees are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for ice cream or other desserts. With a little bit of patience and attention to detail, you can make your own batch of California brittle sees at home and impress your friends and family with your candy-making skills.
