Description
This Best Pumpkin Seeds Brittle recipe combines the rich flavors of toasted pepitas with a buttery, brown sugar and honey caramel base, resulting in a sweet, nutty, and crunchy treat perfect for snack time or gifting. Made with simple ingredients and cooked to the perfect hard crack stage, this brittle offers a delightful texture and a deliciously addictive flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 1 cup toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
Instructions
- Prepare: Lightly spray or line an 11×17-inch (or similar size) baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set it aside to use later for spreading the brittle mixture.
- Melt: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat until it becomes smooth and fully melted, being careful to avoid browning or burning.
- Combine: Add the brown sugar and honey to the melted butter. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Heat: Allow the sugar mixture to cook over medium-low heat without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, and cook until the mixture reaches 290–300°F, which is the “hard crack” stage key for a crunchy brittle texture.
- Mix: Quickly remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the toasted pepitas. Stir rapidly to evenly coat the pumpkin seeds before the candy hardens.
- Spread: Pour the hot brittle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to gently and evenly spread the mixture across the surface.
- Cool: Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature until it hardens. Once cooled, break it into pieces and enjoy your sweet, nutty brittle.
Notes
- Be sure to use a reliable candy thermometer to reach the correct “hard crack” temperature for perfect brittle texture.
- To toast pepitas, spread raw pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned and aromatic.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to easily lift the brittle once cooled.
- Store brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
