Brickle, also known as English toffee or almond toffee, is a type of hard, crunchy candy made by cooking sugar to the hard crack stage and then adding butter and sometimes nuts. The name "brickle" likely derives from the candy's hard, brittle texture that resembles a broken brick.
The best-documented version, butter brickle, was created in the United States: candy maker Arthur Dempsey developed it at the John G. Woodward Co. in Council Bluffs, Iowa, first selling it in 1924 as a variation on butterscotch. It later became a popular ice cream mix-in and the basis for commercial toffee bars.
In the traditional method of making brickle, sugar is cooked to 300-310°F (149-154°C), the hard crack stage, until it caramelizes and turns a deep amber color. Butter is then added and the mixture is stirred vigorously until fully incorporated. Chopped almonds or other nuts are often added at this stage as well. The hot, molten candy is then poured onto a flat surface, such as a marble slab or baking sheet, and allowed to cool and harden. Once set, the brickle is broken into irregular shards or "bricks" by hand.
The flavor profile of brickle is dominated by the caramelized sugar, which provides a rich, toasted flavor. The butter adds a creamy, indulgent quality, while the nuts contribute crunch and nutty notes. Brickle is often enjoyed on its own as a candy, but it can also be used as an ingredient in other desserts, such as ice cream, cookies, or even as a topping for cakes and pies.
Brickle is considered a specialty candy in many regions, and its production is often associated with certain confectioneries or local traditions. For example, in the American Southwest, brickle is sometimes made with pecans instead of almonds, reflecting the local availability of that nut. In the United Kingdom, brickle may be flavored with vanilla or other spices.
Beyond its use as a confection, brickle has also found applications in savory cooking. The hard, crunchy texture of brickle makes it a useful ingredient for adding textural contrast to dishes. It can be crumbled over salads, incorporated into bread or cracker recipes, or used as a topping for roasted vegetables or meats.
Overall, brickle is a classic, versatile candy that has endured for generations, valued for its delicious flavor and satisfying crunch. Its rich history and regional variations make it a fascinating example of the diversity and evolution of confectionery traditions around the world.