pumpkin seed brittle recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pumpkin seed brittle recipe
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The Best pumpkin seed brittle recipe

I’m so excited to share this pumpkin seed brittle recipe with you all. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings and holiday parties. There’s something about the combination of the crunchy pumpkin seeds and the sweet, sticky caramel that just makes it irresistible.

Plus, it’s so easy to make and is a great way to get in some healthy fats and protein from the seeds. As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is quick to make and can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether we’re having a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this brittle is always a crowd-pleaser.

And the best part? It’s actually really good for you too! The pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium and zinc, and the nuts add in some extra protein and healthy fats.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add in different types of nuts or seeds, or even some dried fruit for a sweet twist. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can drizzle it with some chocolate sauce for an extra-decadent treat.

But honestly, it’s perfect just as it is – the simplicity of the ingredients really lets their natural flavors shine through. I’ve also noticed that this recipe seems to bring out a sense of nostalgia in people. Maybe it’s the old-fashioned way of making brittle that evokes memories of childhood holidays or family traditions.

Whatever it is, I know that every time I serve this at one of our gatherings, people seem to light up with joy and enthusiasm – and that’s what makes it all worth it. So if you’re looking for a new recipe to try out this fall season, I highly recommend giving this pumpkin seed brittle a shot! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Pumpkin Seed Brittle

4.5 from 1361 votes

A crunchy, sweet and salty brittle made with pepitas. This candy is simple to prepare and makes a great gift or snack.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brittle

1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper with butter.
2Spread the pumpkin seeds evenly on a separate baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Set aside.
3In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
4Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches a boil.
5Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), about 10 to 12 minutes.
6Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted and smooth.
7Quickly add the baking soda and stir vigorously for about 10 seconds until the mixture becomes light and foamy.
8Working quickly, stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds until evenly coated.
9Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick using a spatula.
10Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes until firm and set.
11Once cooled, break the brittle into irregular pieces by hand or with a knife.
12Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Medium saucepan
Candy thermometer
Wooden spoon
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 220mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 24g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a savory twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika along with the vanilla. Ensure the candy reaches exactly 300°F for the correct brittle texture.

Watch Video Of How Pumpkin Seed Brittle Works

This pumpkin seed brittle recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a sweet treat on hand.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – not only can you customize the ingredients to suit your tastes, but you can also store it for several days without worrying about spoilage.

Simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Q: What is pumpkin seed brittle?

Pumpkin seed brittle is a type of candy made from roasted pumpkin seeds that have been coated in a sweet, sticky caramel mixture.

Q: How do I make pumpkin seed brittle?

To make pumpkin seed brittle, start by roasting 1 cup of pumpkin seeds in a 350-degree oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and fragrant.

Q: What ingredients do I need for pumpkin seed brittle?

You’ll need 1 cup of pumpkin seeds, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.

Q: Can I use different types of nuts or seeds instead of pumpkin seeds?

Yes! While traditional pumpkin seed brittle uses roasted pumpkin seeds, you can experiment with other types of nuts or seeds like almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds.

Q: How long does pumpkin seed brittle last?

Pumpkin seed brittle will typically last for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, if you live in a humid climate or plan on storing it for an extended period of time, you may want to consider refrigerating or freezing it to keep it fresh.

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