Caramelized Sugar Shards with Freeze Dried Strawberries and Hazelnuts

Caramel Sugar Shards with Freeze Dried Strawberries and Hazelnuts

5 from 1 vote

Caramelized Sugar Shards with Freeze Dried Strawberries and Hazelnuts

A wonderful beautiful confectionery decoration that is simple to make with a luminescent glow. Make one sheet and break apart to decorate for cakes, cupcakes and - my milk chocolate pudding.

Prep Time5

Cook Time5

Total Time10

Course: Dessert, dessert decoration

Cuisine: American

Keyword: caramel sugar shard decoration with freeze dried strawberries, caramel sugar shards

Servings: 1 teaspoon servings; makes about 1/2 cup

Author: Karen Sheer a zest for life

Ingredients

1/3 cup pure cane sugar I use organic
2 tablespoons freeze dried strawberries chopped small
2 tablespoons toasted hazelnuts chopped small

Instructions

Add a sheet of parchment paper to a cookie sheet; 12" x 12"
Add the sugar to a 8" sauté pan (I use stainless All-Clad.)
Cook over MEDIUM-LOW heat. When the sugar seems to caramelize - melts and turns a light yellow color, gently swirl the handle of the pan.
As the sugar melts and becomes an amber color - gently stir with a wooden spoon once - just to incorporate unmelted sugar.
When the sugar has all been melted - it is ready to pour when a light amber color. Do not overcook.
Quickly pour the hot caramel, with caution, onto the parchment. Immediately smooth, I do this with a metal spatula, thinly as possible; about 1/8" thick.
Immediately add the freeze dried strawberries and hazelnuts scattering evenly. Quickly press with the back of a spatula to adhere.
Totally cool the caramel sheet. Break into desired pieces when ready to use.

How to store:

Wrap any caramel/shards in waxed paper and add to a tightly sealed container and add to the freezer to stay crisp.

Notes

This recipe may not be reproduced without the consent of its author, Karen Sheer.

Nutrition