Experience the magic of the holiday season with this irresistible Homemade Walnut Butter Crunch. Perfectly blending buttery goodness with the rich flavor of walnuts and a touch of chocolate, this candy is sure to become a cherished tradition in your family. Whether you’re preparing festive treats for your loved ones or searching for the perfect hostess gift, this recipe promises delightful moments and delicious memories.
Ingredients for Walnut Butter Crunch
- 1 pound (450 grams) butter
- 2 cups (400 grams) sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) water
- 2 cups (200 grams) walnuts or black walnuts
- 6 ounces (170 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) light corn syrup
How to Make Walnut Butter Crunch
- Prepare the Walnuts: Line a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) cookie sheet with parchment paper. Place 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) of chopped walnuts on the sheet. Use a nut chopper or food processor to chop the walnuts to a size smaller than pre-packaged “chopped” walnuts, but avoid over-chopping them.
- Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt 1 pound (450 grams) of butter over low heat until fully melted.
- Combine Sugar and Butter: Add 2 cups (400 grams) of sugar to the melted butter, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add Water and Corn Syrup: Pour in 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) of water and 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of light corn syrup into the saucepan. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until it reaches the crackling stage at 290°F (145°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Monitor the Temperature: Insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan to ensure the mixture cooks precisely to 290°F (145°C). Patience is key, as cooking on low heat requires time to achieve the perfect temperature.
- Pour the Filling: Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, carefully pour it over the prepared walnuts on the cookie sheet, spreading it evenly.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle 6 ounces (170 grams) of semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee layer.
- Spread the Chocolate: Using a butter knife, gently spread the melted chocolate chips over the toffee, ensuring an even coating.
- Top with Walnuts: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (75 grams) of chopped walnuts over the melted chocolate to add extra crunch and flavor.
- Cool and Break: Allow the candy to cool completely on the cookie sheet. Once cooled, use a butter knife to push through the candy, breaking it into various sized pieces. Enjoy your homemade Walnut Butter Crunch!
This Walnut Butter Crunch recipe is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit and the joy of sharing homemade goodness with those you love. The combination of buttery toffee, crunchy walnuts, and rich chocolate creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will delight everyone who tries it. Whether you keep it all for yourself, share it with family and friends, or gift it to your favorite hosts, this candy is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Embrace the tradition of making your own holiday candies and create lasting memories with every delicious bite. Happy Holidays!
