Description
Delicious Caramel Cashew Clusters combine toasted cashews with a rich caramel made from butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk, all topped with smooth melted chocolate almond bark. These sweet, crunchy treats are perfect for snacking or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
Cashew Clusters
- 4 cups whole cashews (toasted)
- ½ cup salted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (half of a 14 ounce can)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Topping
- ½ pound chocolate almond bark
Instructions
- Prepare the tray: Line a tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Arrange cashews: Divide the toasted cashews into 24 small piles spaced evenly on the parchment-lined tray.
- Cook caramel base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the salted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring gently to dissolve sugar.
- Add condensed milk and vanilla: Once boiling, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is mixed evenly.
- Monitor temperature: Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently until it reaches 245°F (firm ball stage), which ensures proper caramelization and texture.
- Assemble clusters with caramel: Working quickly to prevent hardening, spoon about one tablespoon of the hot caramel onto each cashew pile, coating them partially. Set the tray aside and allow the caramel to harden.
- Melt chocolate almond bark: Place the almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until fully melted and smooth.
- Top with chocolate: Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate over each caramel-covered cashew cluster to add a rich, glossy finish. Let set at room temperature until chocolate hardens.
- Serve and enjoy: Once fully set, the Caramel Cashew Clusters are ready to be enjoyed as a delightful snack or gift.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the caramel continuously to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings.
- Toast the cashews beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Allow the chocolate topping to fully harden before storing to avoid smudging.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
