Description
Bacon Pecan Brittle
Ingredients:
1 cup Sugar
½ cup Corn Syrup
1 tbsp Butter
1 cup Pecans (chopped)
1 cup Bacon Bits
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tsp Baking Soda
Preparation Steps:
Cook sugar and corn syrup over medium heat until caramelized.
Stir in butter, pecans, and bacon; cook for 1 minute.
Mix in vanilla and baking soda, then spread onto a tray.
Allow to set, then break into shards.
Sweet meets savory in every bite! Like if you’re craving this combo. #BaconAndNutBrittle
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Have all ingredients measured and ready, as the process moves quickly once the sugar is caramelized.
2. In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula, until the sugar dissolves completely. Stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil.
3. Insert a candy thermometer. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage). This will take approximately 10-15 minutes. The syrup will be a deep golden amber color.
4. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the butter, chopped pecans, and bacon bits until fully coated. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Cook for exactly 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat again. Working swiftly, add the vanilla extract and baking soda, stirring vigorously. The mixture will foam up dramatically.
6. Immediately pour the hot brittle onto your prepared baking sheet. Using the back of a greased spatula, carefully and quickly spread it into a thin, even layer. Let it cool completely and harden at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
7. Once completely cool and hard, break the brittle into irregular shards by hand or with the handle of a knife.
Serving Suggestions
This brittle is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone snack on a charcuterie board alongside sharp cheeses and dried fruits. Crumble it over a salad for a sweet, salty, and crunchy topping. It also makes a fantastic garnish for creamy soups like butternut squash or potato leek. For a dessert twist, sprinkle pieces over vanilla ice cream or use as a mix-in for homemade chocolate bark.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this brittle by caramelizing sugar and corn syrup to 300°F, stirring in butter, pecans, and bacon, then adding vanilla and baking soda to create a foamy, airy texture. Quickly spread the mixture thin on a prepared sheet and allow it to cool completely before breaking it apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use real bacon instead of bacon bits? Absolutely. Cook 6-8 strips of thick-cut bacon until very crispy, then chop it finely. Ensure it’s patted completely dry of grease before adding to the hot sugar to prevent separation.
Why did my brittle turn out chewy instead of hard and snappy? This is typically because the sugar syrup did not reach the correct temperature (300°F hard crack stage). Always use a reliable candy thermometer for accuracy.
How should I store the brittle, and how long does it last? Store in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by layers of parchment paper. It will stay fresh and snappy for up to 2 weeks. Do not refrigerate, as moisture will make it sticky.
Can I make this recipe without corn syrup? Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization. A direct substitute is not recommended, but you can try using golden syrup or a glucose syrup for a similar effect, though results may vary.
The baking soda made it foam up a lot. Is that normal? Yes! The baking soda creates tiny air bubbles, giving the brittle its classic light and airy texture. This step is crucial and should not be skipped.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid stirring the sugar syrup once it starts boiling, as this can cause crystallization and a grainy texture. Do not add the baking soda off the heat—the residual heat is needed for the reaction. Never pour the hot brittle onto a cold or ungreased surface, as it will stick irrevocably. Finally, do not attempt to spread the brittle too thin after it has started to set, as this will cause it to tear.
Conclusion
This Bacon Pecan Brittle is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky, offering an unforgettable twist on a classic candy. While it requires attention to temperature and timing, the impressive result is well worth the effort. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter and a unique homemade gift that showcases your culinary creativity. Master this recipe, and you’ll have a stunning, crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.