How to Make Traditional Honey Walnut Kozinaki (Georgian Nut Brittle)

Simple Summary

Kozinaki is a delightful Eastern European nut brittle made with honey, offering a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors in a crunchy, golden treat.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes cooling time)
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 cups (200g) walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup (170g) honey
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, sugar, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.

4. Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), or the "hard crack" stage. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the toasted walnuts and vanilla extract (if using).

6. Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Allow the Kozinaki to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until completely hardened.

8. Once cooled, break or cut the brittle into pieces.

Chef's Notes

• Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
• For a variety of flavors, try using different nuts like almonds, pecans, or a mixed nut blend.
• Store Kozinaki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• To make cutting easier, score the brittle with a sharp knife while it's still slightly warm.
• For a festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the honey mixture.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate): Calories: 250, Protein: 4g, Fat: 18g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats from walnuts), Carbohydrates: 22g. Kozinaki is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals like manganese and copper from the walnuts.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Kozinaki as part of a dessert platter with fresh fruits and cheese.
• Crumble over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for added crunch and sweetness.
• Package in decorative bags or boxes for a homemade holiday gift.
• Pair with a cup of strong black tea or coffee for a traditional Georgian experience.
• For a special occasion, serve alongside other Eastern European sweets like baklava or Turkish delight.