2teaspoonslarge-flake sea salt (such as Maldon)optional
6ouncesdark Chocolatechopped
Instructions
For the Almond Brittle
Line a 12 x 18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or coat it well with nonstick spray.
Measure all of the ingredients before you begin and keep them nearby. Once the syrup reaches temperature, you will need to work quickly.
Clip a candy thermometer to a large saucepan. Add the sugar, corn syrup, and water, and place the pan over medium-high heat.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F.
Stir in the almonds, salt, and butter. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F.
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the rosemary and vanilla extract. Add the baking soda and stir just until it is evenly incorporated.
Immediately pour the brittle onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer about ¼ inch thick.
Let the brittle cool completely, at least 1 hour, then break it into pieces.
Dip in Chocolate
Place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at low power in 15- to 20-second intervals, stirring after each one, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Dip each piece of brittle partially in the melted chocolate and place it on a parchment-lined surface.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if using, and let the chocolate set completely. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Work quickly once it hits temperature: After the brittle reaches 300°F, things move fast. Have your baking sheet ready and ingredients measured so you can pour and spread right away.Don’t overmix after adding baking soda: Stir just until it’s incorporated. Overmixing will knock out the air bubbles and make the brittle dense instead of light and crisp.Watch the color, not just the thermometer: The syrup should be a deep amber at 300°F. If it’s too pale, the flavor will be flat; too dark and it can taste bitter.Use a heavy-bottomed pan: This helps prevent hot spots and reduces the risk of burning the sugar.No candy thermometer?: Drop a small amount of the hot syrup into cold water. It should form hard, brittle threads that snap (hard-crack stage).Spread quickly, but don’t stress about perfection: The brittle will start setting almost immediately. Get it roughly even, rustic is fine.Chocolate melting tip: Use low power and short intervals. Chocolate scorches easily and won’t recover if overheated.Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it dry. Humidity will make brittle sticky.