Sesame Brittle (Simsimiyya)
A classic nutty, caramelised treat that is quick and easy to make.
Sesame brittle, or simsimiyya, is an old-fashioned sweet built on just two essentials: toasted sesame seeds and sugar cooked to a golden caramel. Its simplicity is deceptive, since the trick lies in watching the caramel closely, spreading the mixture thin, and cutting it while still hot before it sets. The reward is crisp, nutty pieces that go beautifully with coffee or tea.
How to Prepare
Toast the sesame seeds lightly until golden, then set aside.
Melt the sugar in a pan over medium heat until it turns into a golden caramel.
Stir in the butter.
Add the toasted sesame and mix quickly until well coated.
Pour the mixture onto a greased surface or parchment and spread it thin.
While still warm, cut into pieces. Let it cool and harden, then serve.
Made it? Rate this recipe
Work quickly once the sesame is added, as the caramel hardens fast.
Ingredient Swaps
Part of the sugar can be replaced with honey or molasses for a deeper flavour and a slightly darker colour. For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped peanuts or almonds along with the sesame. The butter can be left out or swapped for a little vegetable oil to help with spreading.
Common Questions
How do I avoid burning the caramel?
Melt the sugar over medium heat and watch it constantly, removing it as soon as it turns golden, since overheating makes it bitter.
Why cut the mixture while hot?
Brittle sets quickly as it cools, so cutting early keeps the pieces from cracking unevenly.
Why does the brittle sometimes stick?
Spread it on parchment paper or a well-oiled surface so it lifts easily once cooled.
How do I keep the brittle fresh?
Store it in an airtight container away from moisture to stay crisp for days.
Should the sesame be toasted?
Yes, light toasting brings out the sesame flavour and gives the sweet its signature taste.
More from the Kitchen
No-Bake Lotus & Nutella Cream Balls
A quick no-bake treat: crushed Lotus biscuits blended with Lotus spread, butter, Nutella, and clotted cream, then shaped however you like.
Read Recipe
Watermelon with Cream & Fruit
Juicy watermelon wedges spread with cream and piled with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey and crushed pistachios — a no-cook summer treat.
Read Recipe
Vermicelli Cream Caramel
How to make Vermicelli Cream Caramel: Toasted vermicelli set in silky cream caramel custard under a glossy caramel sugar top.
Read Recipe
Sweet Potato with Cream Caramel
How to make Sweet Potato with Cream Caramel: Glazed sweet potato topped with silky cream caramel and a crackle of caramel sugar.
Read Recipe
Honey-Sesame Walnut Snack
How to make Honey-Sesame Walnut Snack: A quick, wholesome snack — walnuts glazed in honey and toasted sesame — three ingredients, endless cravings.
Read Recipe
Cinnamon Apple Greek Yogurt Snack
How to make Cinnamon Apple Greek Yogurt Snack: A wholesome few-minute snack — warm cinnamon apples spooned over cool Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
Read Recipe