Savory Bacon Pecan Brittle
Indulge in the delightful contrast of sweet and savory with this Savory Bacon Pecan Brittle recipe. Crafted to combine the rich flavor of crispy bacon with crunchy pecans in a luscious, caramelized sugar base, this treat is perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a decadent snack. The unique addition of bacon elevates traditional brittle into a gourmet experience that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
12
Servings
135
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar
1 cup (granulated)
Light Corn Syrup
1/2 cup
Water
1/2 cup
Unsalted Butter
1 tablespoon (cut into small pieces)
Vanilla Extract
2 teaspoons
Baking Soda
1 teaspoon
Chopped Pecans
1/2 cup (about 2 ounces, toasted if desired)
Chopped Cooked Bacon
1/3-1/2 cup (6 to 8 ounces uncooked bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by greasing or buttering a large nonstick baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2
In a medium-sized heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has fully dissolved.
3
Once dissolved, allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer and increase the heat to high, cooking until the temperature reaches 290°F (143°C).
4
Remove from heat immediately once the desired temperature is reached.
5
Quickly add the butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, chopped pecans, and chopped bacon to the pan. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up significantly.
6
Once the bubbling subsides, carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it as thinly as possible without the use of a spatula.
7
Allow the brittle to cool for at least 10 minutes at room temperature before breaking it into pieces.
8
Store the cooled bacon brittle in an airtight container to maintain its crispness.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
19g
Carbs
1g
Protein
0.25g
Fiber
17g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Bacon Pecan Brittle?
It is a gourmet candy that combines the rich, salty flavor of crispy bacon with crunchy pecans in a sweet, caramelized sugar base.
What are the main ingredients in Savory Bacon Pecan Brittle?
The main ingredients are sugar, light corn syrup, water, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, chopped pecans, and chopped cooked bacon.
At what temperature should the sugar mixture be cooked?
The mixture should reach 290°F (143°C) on a candy thermometer, which is the soft-crack stage.
How long does the brittle need to cool?
It should cool for at least 10 minutes at room temperature before you break it into pieces.
How should I store the finished bacon brittle?
Store the cooled brittle in an airtight container to maintain its crispness and prevent it from becoming sticky.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, though unsalted is recommended to better control the saltiness from the bacon.
How do I prepare the bacon for this recipe?
You should cook 6 to 8 ounces of uncooked bacon until it is very crispy, then chop it into small pieces for the brittle.
Do I need to stir the mixture while it boils?
No, once the sugar has dissolved, you should let it boil without stirring until it reaches the target temperature.
What is the purpose of baking soda in this recipe?
Baking soda reacts with the heat to create tiny air bubbles, which gives the brittle a lighter, aerated, and crunchier texture.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, peanuts, or almonds if you prefer.
How do I prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan?
Grease or butter a large nonstick baking sheet thoroughly before you begin cooking the sugar mixture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brand labels for corn syrup and vanilla.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 135 calories.
Why did my brittle turn out soft or sticky?
This usually happens if the sugar mixture didn't reach the full 290°F or if the humidity in your kitchen is very high.
Should I toast the pecans before adding them?
Toasting the pecans is optional but highly recommended as it enhances their nutty flavor.
Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes, you can use dark corn syrup, which will give the brittle a slightly deeper color and a hint of molasses flavor.
What happens when I add the vanilla and baking soda?
The mixture will bubble up significantly, so you must be cautious and stir quickly but carefully.
How thin should I spread the brittle?
Spread it as thinly as possible onto the baking sheet immediately after pouring to ensure the best crunch.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon to make a traditional pecan brittle, though it will lose the savory-salty contrast.
What kind of saucepan should I use?
A medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan is best for even heat distribution and to prevent burning the sugar.
How do I clean the candy residue off my pot?
Fill the pot with hot water and let it soak; the hardened sugar will eventually dissolve, making it easy to wash.
Is Savory Bacon Pecan Brittle good for parties?
Absolutely! Its unique sweet and savory profile makes it a gourmet treat that is perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Can I use a spatula to spread the mixture?
The recipe suggests spreading it without a spatula if possible to maintain the aerated texture, but you can use one if you work very quickly.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 17 grams of sugar.
Does the recipe contain any fiber?
Yes, there is a small amount of fiber, about 0.25 grams per serving, coming from the pecans.
Can I add spices to the brittle?
Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon when you add the pecans can provide an extra layer of flavor.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
How long will the brittle stay fresh in a container?
If kept in a truly airtight container in a cool, dry place, it can stay fresh for up to two weeks.
What temperature is 290°F in Celsius?
It is 143°C.