Are you ready to experience a delightful twist on a classic comfort food? Forget the soggy bottom; we're taking the beloved banana pudding and transforming it into a surprisingly crunchy, unbelievably addictive brittle! This easy recipe combines the creamy sweetness of banana pudding with the satisfying crunch of brittle, creating a unique treat perfect for sharing (or not!). It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought sweets. Let's dive into this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed Nilla wafers
- 1/2 cup dried, sweetened banana slices (you can find these in most grocery stores)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is a crucial step for easy brittle removal later!
Make the Brittle:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard-crack stage, crucial for achieving that perfect brittle texture.
- Carefully remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted and fully incorporated. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot!
Assemble and Cool:
- Quickly add the crushed Nilla wafers and dried banana slices, stirring gently to coat evenly. If using nuts, add them now as well.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely and harden at room temperature. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Resist the urge to touch it until it's completely set!
Break and Enjoy:
- Once cooled and hardened, break the brittle into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Success:
- Use a candy thermometer: Accurate temperature is essential for achieving the right consistency. Don't guess!
- Don't stir after the boil: Stirring during the cooking process can cause the sugar to crystallize.
- Work quickly: Once you remove the pan from the heat, work swiftly to add the butter, vanilla, and other ingredients. The mixture cools down quickly.
- Grease the pan well: This will prevent sticking and make it much easier to remove the brittle.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Pudding Brittle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for an extra decadent treat.
- Spiced Brittle: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fruit Medley: Substitute or add other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries along with the banana slices.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary greatly depending on the serving size and the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate for a 1-ounce serving might be:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This Banana Pudding Brittle recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and crunchy textures, creating a truly unique and satisfying treat. It's a fun recipe to make, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a special dessert. Enjoy the delicious result of your homemade cooking!