Caramel Matzo Crunch

Caramel Matzo Crunch Recipe from Israel | Delicious Dessert

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Caramel Matzo Crunch is a delicious and addictive treat that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of matzo and the richness of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for Passover or any time you're craving a sweet and salty snack.

History

Caramel Matzo Crunch is a modern twist on traditional matzo brittle, which has been enjoyed by Jewish families for generations. This recipe adds a layer of caramel and chocolate to the classic matzo and nut mixture, creating a decadent and irresistible treat.

Ingredients

6 unsalted matzos
1 cup unsalted butter or margarine
1.5 cups firmly packed brown sugar
1.25 cups approximately chocolate chips
1 tsp optional vanilla

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Line a large (or two smaller) cookie sheets completely with foil.
Cover the bottom of the sheet with baking parchment on top of the foil (this is very important since the mixture becomes sticky during baking).
Evenly line the bottom of the cookie sheet with the matzo, cutting extra pieces as needed to fit any spaces.
In a 3 qt, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter or margarine and the brown sugar.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil, about 2 to 4 minutes.
Boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from the heat and pour the mixture over the matzo, ensuring it is completely covered.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 350°F (177°C).
Bake for 15 minutes, checking every few minutes to make sure the mixture is not burning.
If it seems to be browning too quickly, remove the pan from the oven, lower the heat to 325°F, and then replace the pan.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the chopped chocolate or chips.
Let it stand for 5 minutes, and then spread the melted chocolate over the matzo.
While still warm, break the matzo into squares or odd shapes.
Chill the pan, still with the matzo, in the freezer until it is set (it is not necessary to cut or break the pieces apart until after it is solid).

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the caramel mixture for added texture and flavor.
Use white chocolate or butterscotch chips instead of chocolate for a different twist.

Notes

As a variation, use coarsely chopped white chocolate or a combination of white and dark, and chopped or slivered toasted almonds, sprinkled on top as the chocolate sets. You can also omit the chocolate for a caramel-alone butter crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to line your baking sheet with foil and parchment paper to prevent the caramel from sticking.

- Keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks to prevent burning.

- Let the matzo crunch cool completely before breaking it into pieces to ensure clean edges.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel Matzo Crunch is perfect for serving at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a homemade gift. Enjoy it on its own or crumble it over ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Caramel Matzo Crunch is to cook the caramel until it reaches the right temperature and consistency. Be sure to stir constantly and watch carefully to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have matzo on hand, you can use saltine crackers or graham crackers as a substitute. You can also use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Caramel Matzo Crunch can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Caramel Matzo Crunch on a platter or in decorative tins for a beautiful presentation. You can also package it in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a homemade gift.

Pairing Recommendations

Caramel Matzo Crunch pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet and satisfying treat. It also goes well with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Caramel Matzo Crunch in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If it becomes soft, you can crisp it up in a 350°F oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Caramel Matzo Crunch contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Caramel Matzo Crunch contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Caramel Matzo Crunch contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Caramel Matzo Crunch contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Caramel Matzo Crunch is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains matzo, which is made from wheat and may not be suitable for those with gluten allergies. It also contains margarine, which may contain dairy.

Summary

Caramel Matzo Crunch is a sweet and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and fat content.

Summary

Caramel Matzo Crunch is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With its combination of caramel, chocolate, and crunchy matzo, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this indulgent dessert during the holidays or anytime you're craving something sweet and salty.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was many years ago, back when my own grandmother was still alive and teaching me the ways of the kitchen. She was a wonderful cook who never followed a recipe, always relying on her instincts and taste buds to guide her creations. But one day, she showed me a written recipe for Caramel Matzo Crunch that she had received from a friend. It was a unique twist on a traditional Passover treat, and I was instantly intrigued.

My grandmother explained that this recipe was a modern take on an old favorite, combining the traditional flavors of matzo with a sweet and salty caramel crunch. She told me that the key to making it perfect was to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the instructions carefully. I watched as she mixed together butter, brown sugar, and salt to create a rich caramel sauce, which she poured over a layer of matzo crackers before baking it to a golden perfection.

As the aroma of caramel and matzo filled the kitchen, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection. Over the years, I have made this Caramel Matzo Crunch countless times, and it always brings back memories of my grandmother and the joy we shared in the kitchen.

I have since shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its delicious taste and crunchy texture. It has become a tradition in our household, especially during the Passover season when we gather together to celebrate our heritage and enjoy the foods that have been passed down through generations.

I am grateful to have learned this recipe from my grandmother, as it has become a symbol of our shared love for cooking and tradition. Every time I make Caramel Matzo Crunch, I am reminded of her and the special bond we had in the kitchen. I hope that this recipe will continue to be enjoyed by many more generations to come, just as it has been cherished by my own family.

So here it is, the recipe for Caramel Matzo Crunch that has brought so much joy and deliciousness into my life:

Ingredients:

- 4-6 sheets of matzo

- 1 cup of unsalted butter

- 1 cup of brown sugar

- A pinch of salt

- 1 cup of chocolate chips (optional)

- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange the matzo crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet, breaking them into smaller pieces if necessary to fit.

3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and salt, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.

4. Continue to cook the caramel sauce for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens and darkens in color.

5. Pour the caramel sauce over the matzo crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

6. Bake the Caramel Matzo Crunch in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and the matzo is golden brown.

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before sprinkling with chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if desired.

8. Allow the Caramel Matzo Crunch to cool completely before breaking it into pieces and serving.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones as much as I have. May it bring you closer to your own family traditions and create lasting memories in the kitchen. Happy cooking!