Chocolate Honeycomb
A delightful homemade version of the classic Australian Violet Crumble, featuring crunchy, airy honeycomb coated in rich dark chocolate.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200g Granulated sugar(Ensure it's granulated for even melting.)
- 80g Golden syrup(A key ingredient for the characteristic flavor and texture. Honey can be substituted, but the flavor will differ.)
- 2 tsp Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)(Must be fresh for maximum foaming action. Sift it to avoid clumps.)
- 300g Dark chocolate(Use good quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa solids) for best flavor. Can be chopped or in chip form.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare your baking tray: Line a large baking sheet (approximately 30x40cm or 12x16 inches) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease the parchment paper if desired, though it's usually not necessary.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
Combine sugar and golden syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely. Avoid stirring once the mixture starts to boil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Bring the syrup to a boil. Cook, without stirring, until it reaches the 'hard crack' stage. This is crucial for the honeycomb's texture. Use a sugar thermometer: the target temperature is 150°C (300°F). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small amount of syrup into ice-cold water; it should form hard, brittle threads.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately once the hard crack stage is reached. Let it sit for about 30 seconds to a minute, allowing the bubbling to subside slightly. Then, quickly and carefully whisk in the sifted bicarbonate of soda. The mixture will foam up dramatically and turn a lighter color. Stir just until combined – overmixing can make it tough.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Immediately pour the foaming mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Do NOT spread it; let it settle naturally. The air incorporated will create the honeycomb structure.
⏱️ 1 minute - 6
Allow the honeycomb to cool completely and harden at room temperature. This will take at least 1 hour, or longer if your kitchen is humid. Do not refrigerate, as this can make it sticky.
⏱️ 1 hour - 7
Once completely cool and hard, break the honeycomb into bite-sized pieces. You can use your hands or a heavy knife. Be careful, as the edges can be sharp.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Temper the dark chocolate. This process involves heating and cooling the chocolate to specific temperatures to achieve a glossy finish and a satisfying snap. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate gently over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat it.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 9
Dip each piece of honeycomb into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. You can use a fork or a dipping tool. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 10
Place the coated honeycomb pieces on a fresh sheet of parchment paper to set. Allow the chocolate to harden completely. This can be done at room temperature or in the refrigerator for faster setting (about 15-20 minutes).
⏱️ 20 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Work quickly and safely once the bicarbonate of soda is added, as the reaction is immediate and vigorous.
- ✓Accurate temperature control is critical for achieving the correct hard crack stage. Use a reliable sugar thermometer.
- ✓Ensure the bicarbonate of soda is fresh and sifted to prevent lumps and ensure maximum foaming.
- ✓Cooling the honeycomb completely is essential before breaking and coating. If it's still warm, it will be sticky and difficult to handle.
- ✓Tempering chocolate is recommended for the best results (glossy, snap, and shelf-life), but simple melting will also work for a home treat.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use milk chocolate or white chocolate for coating.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate for a salted caramel effect.
- Coat only half of each honeycomb piece for a two-toned look.