This Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s an irresistible embrace of autumn flavors, a classic confection reimagined with the warmth of pumpkin spice. Get ready to fall in love with this buttery, crunchy delight that captures the essence of the season!
Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle: Your Ultimate Fall Indulgence
As the leaves begin to change and a crisp coolness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your home. This season, elevate your autumn baking with a truly special confection: homemade **Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle**. This isn’t just any brittle; it’s a nostalgic, old-fashioned favorite infused with the beloved flavors of fall, making it an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and spiced.
September officially marks the start of pumpkin season, and we’re diving headfirst into all things cozy and delicious! While many pumpkin recipes abound, this brittle stands out with its unique texture and incredible flavor profile. Imagine golden, buttery candy studded with toasted pecans and generously seasoned with a hint of warm pumpkin spice – it’s simply divine.
A word of caution: this isn’t a recipe for the faint of heart, or those strictly adhering to a diet. This pecan brittle is a truly decadent indulgence, rich and satisfying in every bite. But trust us, every single moment of pure enjoyment is absolutely worth it. Prepare to make this a staple in your fall dessert repertoire, as it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite and a delightful gift for friends and neighbors.
Why This Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle Will Become Your Fall Obsession
There are countless reasons to adore this **pumpkin spice pecan brittle**, beyond its sheer deliciousness:
- Unforgettable Flavor & Texture: This brittle offers an exquisite combination of a rich, buttery caramel base with the warm, aromatic notes of pumpkin spice. Each bite delivers a satisfying snap, followed by the delightful crunch of perfectly toasted pecans. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that truly embodies autumn.
- Surprisingly Simple to Make: Don’t let the idea of candy making intimidate you! While it requires attention to detail and a candy thermometer, the process is straightforward and uses readily available ingredients. With a little focus, you’ll be creating gourmet-level brittle in your own kitchen.
- The Magic of a Candy Thermometer: Yes, you’ll need a candy thermometer. But don’t let this be a barrier! These essential tools are inexpensive and open up a world of delightful candy-making possibilities. This recipe alone will prove its worth, as you’ll want to whip up batches of this brittle time and time again. It ensures precision, taking the guesswork out of achieving that perfect brittle consistency.
- The Perfect Edible Gift: As the holiday season approaches, this pumpkin spice pecan brittle makes an absolutely charming and thoughtful hostess gift. Pack it in a decorative tin, a pretty jar, or a festive cellophane bag, and you’ll have a homemade present that’s sure to impress everyone on your list. It’s also ideal for cookie exchanges, potlucks, or simply sharing with loved ones.
- Versatility for Any Occasion: While perfect for fall celebrations, this brittle is also a fantastic addition to dessert tables year-round. Crumble it over vanilla ice cream, stir it into yogurt, or enjoy it simply on its own with a cup of coffee or tea.
Beyond its incredible taste, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from making candy from scratch. This recipe is an ideal introduction to the art of candy making, offering a rewarding experience and a delicious outcome.
Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle
Making delicious brittle starts with quality ingredients. For this delightful Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle, you’ll need a few key components that work in harmony to create its signature flavor and texture. Ensure you have everything measured out and ready before you begin, as candy making moves quickly!
- Unsalted Butter: This provides the rich, creamy foundation and buttery flavor that defines good brittle. You’ll need extra for greasing your baking sheet.
- Pecans: The star nut of this recipe! Toasted pecans add a deep, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Choose high-quality pecans for the best results.
- Granulated Sugar: The primary sweetener, forming the hard candy base.
- Light Corn Syrup: Crucial for preventing sugar crystallization, ensuring a smooth, clear, and perfectly crunchy brittle. Don’t skip this!
- Baking Soda: This might seem unusual for candy, but it’s essential! It reacts with the hot sugar mixture to create tiny air bubbles, which gives brittle its characteristic light, airy, and fragile texture. Without it, your brittle would be much harder and denser.
- Ground Cinnamon: A foundational spice for autumn, adding warmth and depth.
- Fine Sea Salt: A pinch of salt perfectly balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: The magical blend that brings all the classic fall flavors to life – typically a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice.
- Vanilla Extract: Added at the very end, vanilla provides a beautiful aromatic finish, rounding out the sweet and spicy notes.
Having these ingredients prepped and measured (mise en place) before you start cooking is key to a successful brittle-making experience!
Crafting Perfection: Step-By-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle
Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of irresistible Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle. Precision and speed are your friends in candy making!
Preparation is Key: Setting Up for Success
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place an oven rack in the center. Next, generously butter a large baking sheet (approximately 13×18 inches or a similar size). Set this prepared sheet aside on a heatproof surface near your stovetop. You’ll need it ready for pouring the hot brittle mixture.
- Toast the Pecans: Spread your pecans in a single layer on another large, unbuttered baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for 6-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Remove the toasted pecans from the oven and set them aside. Toasted nuts add a much deeper flavor than raw ones.
- Combine Dry Spices: In a small, separate bowl, combine the baking soda, ground cinnamon, fine sea salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk them together thoroughly. Set this bowl aside, as you’ll add these rapidly at a critical moment.
The Candy Making Process: Achieving Brittle Perfection
- Start the Sugar Syrup: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan (a 5 to 6-quart pan is ideal to accommodate foaming), combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is important to prevent crystallization later on.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Carefully insert a candy thermometer into the pot, ensuring the tip doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Continue to cook until the thermometer reads 230 degrees F (110 degrees C) – this is the soft ball stage.
- Add Pecans and Butter to Hard Crack Stage: At 230 degrees F, add the toasted pecans and the unsalted butter to the sugar mixture. Continue to cook, stirring constantly and vigorously with your heatproof spatula, until the thermometer reads 300 degrees F (149 degrees C). This is the hard crack stage, crucial for the brittle’s crisp texture. The mixture will be golden brown and thick. This constant stirring ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
The Final Touch: Spicing and Spreading
- Incorporate Spices and Vanilla: Immediately remove the pot from the heat and carefully remove the candy thermometer. Quickly stir in the pre-combined baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and pumpkin pie spice from the small bowl, along with the vanilla extract. Be prepared: the mixture will foam up vigorously when the baking soda is added – this is normal and desired, as it creates the brittle’s porous texture. Stir quickly and vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the foaming has subsided slightly. Work fast, as the mixture will begin to set.
- Spread the Brittle: Pour the hot brittle mixture evenly onto your prepared buttered baking sheet. Working quickly, use the back of your spatula (lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray for easier spreading) to spread the mixture into a thin, even layer. It doesn’t need to fill the entire tray; focus on achieving a consistent thickness. Be cautious, as the mixture is extremely hot.
- Cool and Break: Allow the brittle to cool completely and harden at room temperature for approximately 2 hours. Do not attempt to move or break it before it is fully cooled. Once firm, break the brittle into irregular, bite-sized pieces.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own batch of homemade Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle. I truly hope you love this brittle as much as I do. I dare you to try and eat just one piece – it’s practically impossible! The perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and spiced makes it incredibly addictive.
Please let me know if you give this recipe a try. If you have any questions or need further clarification on any step, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. Enjoy this spectacular fall treat!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle Every Time
Making brittle can seem daunting, but with a few expert tips, you’ll achieve perfect results. Here’s how to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle is a resounding success:
- Read the Entire Recipe First: Before you even begin, read through all the instructions. This familiarizes you with the process and timing, which is crucial for candy making where speed is often necessary.
- Mise en Place (Everything in its Place): This French culinary term means having all your ingredients measured, prepped, and ready before you start cooking. For brittle, this is non-negotiable. Once the sugar mixture reaches high temperatures, you won’t have time to measure spices or butter. Have your buttered baking sheet, toasted pecans, mixed dry spices, and vanilla extract all within arm’s reach.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A sturdy, heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat more evenly, reducing the risk of scorching your sugar syrup.
- Calibrate Your Candy Thermometer: Before relying on your thermometer, test its accuracy. Place it in boiling water; it should read 212°F (100°C). If it reads slightly off, note the difference and adjust your target temperatures accordingly.
- Avoid Stirring Too Much at High Heat: Once the sugar syrup begins to boil, resist the urge to stir constantly. Too much stirring can cause sugar crystals to form on the sides of the pan, leading to grainy brittle. Stir only occasionally until you add the pecans and butter.
- Safety First: Hot Sugar is Dangerous: Be extremely careful when working with hot sugar. It can cause severe burns. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area. Use long-handled spatulas and wear oven mitts if you feel more comfortable.
- Don’t Be Afraid of the Foam: When you add the baking soda and spices, the mixture will foam up significantly. This is exactly what you want! The baking soda reacts with the hot sugar, releasing carbon dioxide gas that creates the airy, brittle texture. Stir quickly and vigorously to incorporate it fully.
- Spread Quickly: Once the brittle mixture is poured onto the baking sheet, it will start to set almost immediately. Work swiftly to spread it into an even, thin layer using a buttered or non-stick sprayed spatula.
- Proper Cooling is Essential: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Don’t put it in the refrigerator to speed up the process, as this can lead to condensation and make it sticky.
Storage Suggestions
Once your Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle has cooled and broken into pieces, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer pieces between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored properly, it will remain fresh and crunchy for up to 4 weeks. This makes it an excellent make-ahead treat for holiday gifting!
More Delicious Pumpkin Themed Recipes to Savor This Fall
If you’re like us and can’t get enough of pumpkin during the autumn season, here are a few more delightful recipes to add to your baking list. These treats pair wonderfully with our Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle and will fill your home with the inviting aromas of fall:
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Bread: A wonderfully moist and tender quick bread, topped with a sweet and fragrant maple glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
Pumpkin Madeleines: Delicate, shell-shaped French cakes with a hint of pumpkin spice. These elegant treats are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins: A classic combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips in a soft, fluffy muffin. These are always a crowd-pleaser and ideal for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle
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Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp.unsalted butter, plus more for the baking sheet
- 3 cups pecans
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 tsp. baking soda
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place a rack in center of oven.
- Spread pecans on a large baking sheet and toast in the oven for 6-7 minutes or until fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Generously butter another large baking sheet (approx. 13×18 inches) and set aside on a heatproof surface.
- In a small bowl, combine baking soda, cinnamon, sea salt and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk together and set aside.
- Combine sugar, corn syrup and 1/2 cup water in a large saucepan (5 to 6 quart) over medium heat. Stir often with a heatproof spatula until the sugar is totally dissolved. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium high heat and insert a candy thermometer into the pot (ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom). Stir occasionally, until the thermometer reads 230 degrees F (110 degrees C). Add the pecans and the butter and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the thermometer reads 300 degrees F (149 degrees C).
- Remove pot from the heat and remove candy thermometer. Quickly stir in the baking soda, cinnamon, salt and pumpkin pie spice from the small bowl along with the vanilla. Mixture will foam, so be careful. Quickly and vigorously stir the mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared buttered baking sheet. Quickly spread it to a nice even layer with the back of the spatula sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. The mixture does not need to fill up the entire tray, but aim for even thickness.
- Let cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours, until fully hardened. Break into irregular pieces. Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks.
