Every year, one the Christmas treats we look forward to the most is the small plate of Christmas goodies that my Aunt Sue makes. Sue Zanteson is an amazing cook, an accolade she would quickly shrug off but everyone in her life will affirm. We love the carmels, the cookies... but the big hit is the Almond Roca. I think this is the recipe she uses and it sure is good.
INGREDIENTS
1 lb unsalted butter, cut into chunks, plus more for the pan
3 cups granulated sugar
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons water
½ tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tbsp light corn syrup
3½ cups coarsely chopped toasted slivered almonds
9 oz 41% milk chocolate, melted
PREPARATION
- Lightly butter a 17-by-12-by-1-inch baking sheet, and line with parchment paper to cover the bottom and all sides. (The butter will anchor the parchment to the pan.)
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sugar, water, lemon juice, and corn syrup and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Once the mixture boils, stop stirring. Brush down any sugar crystals clinging to the sides of the pot with a pastry brush dipped in water.
- Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot and cook for 15 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C). If the mixture threatens to boil over, lower the heat as necessary. (If the liquid is too shallow for the thermometer to measure the temperature, tilt the pot to get an accurate reading.) Resist the temptation to stir; if the caramel is not coloring evenly, swirl the pan from time to time.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2 cups of the almonds. Quickly spread the caramel in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Let cool completely. Spread the chocolate over the top of the caramel, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 1/2 cups almonds. Let the chocolate harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Break the roca into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
