Pumpkin Seed Brittle is a delightful treat that’s both crunchy and sweet. Made from simple ingredients, it brings a warm, nutty flavor that completely enchants the senses. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack on your own or gifting it to friends and family during the holiday season, this brittle is sure to impress!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Pumpkin Seed Brittle
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Pumpkin Seed Brittle. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. The nutty crunch of pumpkin seeds mixed with the rich sweetness of maple syrup creates a treats that satisfies both the sweet and savory cravings. It’s also a fantastic way to showcase the unique flavor of pumpkin seeds, a nutritious snack loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, the easy preparation makes it an ideal recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
How to Make Pumpkin Seed Brittle
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil (for greasing the pan)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and greasing it with butter or coconut oil. This step ensures that your brittle won’t stick once it cools.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup and salt. Stir the mixture constantly and bring it to a boil. The bubbling syrup will start to create a delightful aroma that will get your taste buds ready for the treat to come!
### Step 3: Cooking
Add the pumpkin seeds to the bubbling mixture and continue cooking. Stir consistently while you keep an eye on the color. After about 8-10 minutes, the mixture should turn a deep amber, which indicates it’s ready.
### Step 4: Finishing
Remove the saucepan from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot! Pour the brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Allow it to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
How to Serve Pumpkin Seed Brittle
Pumpkin Seed Brittle is perfect for snacking on its own, adding to cheese boards, or topping desserts like ice cream or yogurt. You can even chop it into smaller pieces to sprinkle over salads for a delightful crunch. Package it in a jar tied with a ribbon for an attractive and thoughtful gift!
How to Store Pumpkin Seed Brittle
To keep your Pumpkin Seed Brittle fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay good for about two weeks, maintaining its crunchy texture. If you live in a very humid area, consider refrigerating it to prevent the brittle from getting sticky.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Seed Brittle
- Use a candy thermometer if you have one to ensure the syrup reaches the right temperature for that perfect brittle texture.
- Stir the mixture continuously once you add the pumpkin seeds to prevent burning.
- Customize the flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of maple syrup, but keep in mind it will alter the taste.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations:
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the brittle cools, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and allow it to set.
- Mixed Nuts: Substitute some of the pumpkin seeds with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added flavor and texture.
- Spiced Brittle: Introduce spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a holiday twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use roasted pumpkin seeds instead of raw? Yes, roasted pumpkin seeds can be used, but they might result in a slightly different texture. Raw seeds give a crunchier final product.
- What if I don’t have maple syrup? You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will change slightly.
- How do I know when the syrup is ready? The mixture should reach a deep amber color and have a candy-like consistency. A candy thermometer should register around 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Why did my brittle turn out sticky? Sticky brittle might mean that the syrup didn’t cook long enough or there was humidity in the air when stored. Make sure it’s completely cool before storing.
- Can I add flavors like chocolate or spices? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and add your favorite flavors to make it truly your own.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Seed Brittle is a wonderful treat that combines simplicity with delightful flavors. It’s an excellent way to indulge your sweet tooth while also benefiting from the nutritional perks of pumpkin seeds. Whether you serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as an afternoon snack, this brittle is sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making this delicious treat!
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Pumpkin Seed Brittle
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful crunchy and sweet treat made from pumpkin seeds and maple syrup, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and grease it with butter or coconut oil.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add pumpkin seeds to the bubbling mixture and cook for 8-10 minutes until deep amber.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and pour onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow to cool before breaking into pieces.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For a spicy kick, consider adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
