Ingredients

Cooking spray

1 cup sugar

3 Tbsp pure honey

3/4 tsp Kosher salt

1/4 tsp baking soda

2 1/2 cups Golden Grahams cereal

1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds

2 pints vanilla ice cream

Whipped cream and cherries, for garnish

For the Spicy Hot Fudge Sauce:

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 Tbsp corn syrup

4 Tbsp unsalted butter

1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of cayenne

Instructions

Step 1: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the sugar, honey, and 3 tablespoons of water to a boil. Cook without stirring until the mixture reaches a deep-amber color, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.

Step 2: Stir in the salt and baking soda right away, then quickly fold in the Golden Grahams cereal and toasted sliced almonds. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet using a rubber spatula. Let it cool until hardened, about 40 to 45 minutes, then break into clusters.

Step 3: To make the Spicy Hot Fudge Sauce, whisk together the cocoa powder and light brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Add the heavy cream and corn syrup, whisking to combine. Heat over medium heat until warm, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne until smooth. Cool the sauce, whisking occasionally, until just warm, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 4: To assemble the parfaits, layer the spicy hot fudge sauce, brittle clusters, and scoops of vanilla ice cream in parfait glasses. Top each with whipped cream and a cherry for garnish. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the toasted sliced almonds with more Golden Grahams or your favorite seed such as pumpkin seeds.

Adjust the cayenne in the hot fudge sauce to control the spice level. Start with a small pinch and add more if you prefer extra heat.

Use homemade vanilla ice cream or your favorite store-bought brand for a personalized touch.

To make the brittle clusters extra crunchy, spread the mixture thinly and bake at a low temperature for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftover brittle clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The spicy hot fudge sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to one week; reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving. Assemble parfaits just before serving to keep the ice cream from melting and the brittle crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make the brittle clusters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brittle clusters up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crunch.

Can I use a different ice cream flavor?

Absolutely! While vanilla complements the spicy fudge sauce well, you can experiment with chocolate, caramel, or even coffee-flavored ice cream for a new twist.