Are you craving a sweet treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this buttery pecan brittle recipe! This homemade candy is the perfect combination of crunchy pecans, rich buttery sweetness, and just the right amount of salty goodness. It's a fantastic dessert for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a quiet night in or hosting a holiday gathering. This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that are surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking – this is a crucial step for easy cleanup later!
Making the Brittle:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Do not stir.
- Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard-crack stage. Be patient; this takes time and careful monitoring.
- Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted and incorporated. Stir in the salt and vanilla extract.
- Quickly stir in the pecans, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Cooling and Setting:
- Immediately pour the brittle onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into a thin, even layer using a spatula or spoon.
- Let the brittle cool completely and harden undisturbed. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes. Resist the urge to touch it until it's completely set!
- Once cooled and hardened, break the brittle into irregular pieces. This is the fun part!
Tips for the Best Buttery Pecan Brittle:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This prevents burning and ensures even heating.
- Don't stir the sugar mixture while it's boiling: Stirring can cause crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer: This is essential for achieving the correct consistency.
- Work quickly once the butter is added: The mixture cools down rapidly.
- Store in an airtight container: This helps keep the brittle fresh and crunchy.
Variations:
- Add other nuts: Try adding walnuts, almonds, or cashews along with or instead of pecans.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm flavor.
- Drizzle with chocolate: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled brittle for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the serving size and the specific ingredients used. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact measurements. However, this recipe generally provides a delightful balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Enjoy responsibly as part of a balanced diet.
This buttery pecan brittle recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner additions – although it’s more of a dessert! With its simple steps and delightful taste, it's sure to become a family favorite. It's also a great choice for homemade cooking enthusiasts looking to impress their friends and family with a delicious, homemade sweet treat. Enjoy!