Croccante Toscano
About Croccante Toscano
Croccante Toscano is a Tuscan delight known for its rich history and delicious taste. This traditional dessert comes from the Tuscany region of Italy, a place famous for its exquisite cuisine and picturesque landscapes. Traditionally served during festive occasions, Croccante Toscano boasts a crunchy texture and sweet flavor. The word 'croccante' translates to 'crispy' or 'crunchy', which perfectly describes this nutty confection.
Ingredients
Preparation
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Croccante Toscano requires carefully roasted almonds and hazelnuts to get that perfect balance of crunch and flavor. It's important to prepare a reliable cooking timer when making the syrup, as sugar can easily go from caramelized to burnt.
Step 1: Roasting the Nuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the almonds and hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 10 minutes or until they are golden and fragrant. Make sure to monitor the nuts closely to avoid burning.
Step 2: Making the Caramel Syrup
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and butter. Heat over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden brown. Allow the syrup to reach the hard crack stage, about 300°F (149°C) on a cooking timer.
Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients
Once the caramel syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the roasted almonds and hazelnuts. Add in a dash of vanilla extract and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Forming the Croccante
While the mixture is still hot, pour it onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the sheet, aiming for about half an inch in thickness. Allow the Croccante to cool completely at room temperature until it becomes solid and brittle.
Step 5: Breaking and Serving
Once the Croccante is set, use your hands to break it into bite-sized pieces. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
Croccante Toscano is best enjoyed with a cup of strong coffee or served alongside gelato for a decadent dessert. The combination of robust flavors of almonds and hazelnuts creates a moreish treat that is hard to resist. Ideal for gifting or serving during the festive season, Croccante Toscano is always a crowd-pleaser.