Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a snack that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, salty, and crunchy, look no further than this Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe. This delightful treat combines the rich nuttiness of pecans with the earthy crunch of pepitas, all glazed in a luscious coat of pure maple syrup and a hint of seasoning. It’s the kind of brittle that keeps you coming back for just one more piece, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends. Trust me, once you try this Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe, it’s bound to become your new go-to snack or gift-worthy delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness of maple syrup to the crunch of pecans and pepitas, every element enhances the final product beautifully.

• 2 cups roughly chopped pecan halves (raw/unsalted): Pecans provide a buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch that is essential for any brittle.
• 1 cup pepitas (raw/unsalted): These pumpkin seeds add a wonderful earthy depth and extra textural interest.
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: The natural sweetness and slight caramel notes of maple syrup give the brittle its glossy, sticky coating.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: This subtle oil helps everything bind together and enhances the richness without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt heightens the flavors and adds that perfect savory contrast to the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Just the right amount of pepper introduces a gentle warmth and complexity.

How to Make Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 275˚F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Preparing your baking setup first ensures everything goes smoothly once your coated nuts are ready to bake.

Step 2: Combine Nuts and Pepitas

Place the roughly chopped pecans and whole pepitas into a medium-sized bowl. This is where the main focus lies: the beautiful natural textures and flavors that will become brittle once baked and sugared.

Step 3: Whisk the Maple Syrup Mixture

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Whisking well creates an even, smooth glaze that will coat every nut and seed with luscious sweetness and seasoning.

Step 4: Coat the Nuts Evenly

Pour the maple syrup mixture over the pecans and pepitas, then stir gently but thoroughly until each piece is fully coated. The key here is an even layer of syrup on every nut so that the final brittle is perfectly sticky and flavorful throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Brittle

Transfer the coated nuts to your prepared sheet pan and spread them into a thin, even layer—this ensures uniform baking. Place the pan on the lowest oven rack and bake for about 33 to 35 minutes. Remember to rotate the pan halfway through so it browns evenly, especially around the edges where the magic happens.

Step 6: Cool and Break Apart

Once your pecan pepita brittle looks golden brown and irresistibly crunchy, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely on the pan. Cooling is essential for the brittle to set firmly. After cooling, simply break it into bite-sized pieces—ready for snacking or sharing!

How to Serve Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe

Garnishes

This brittle shines on its own, but if you want to dress it up, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. Both accents add an extra wow factor that blends beautifully with the brittle’s sweet and savory profile.

Side Dishes

Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cozy cup of coffee or tea, and it’s a fantastic nibble alongside cheese plates. Try serving it with sharp cheddar or creamy brie— the contrast between the brittle’s crunch and the softness or tanginess of cheese is simply divine.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange the brittle pieces on a festive platter lined with colorful napkins or fall-inspired leaves. You could also wrap small portions in clear cellophane tied with ribbon to gift your loved ones a handmade treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pecan pepita brittle stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and crisp for up to a week, ready whenever you crave a sweet and salty snack.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this brittle for longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze broken pieces in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and the brittle’s texture and flavor will remain spot on.

Reheating

Reheating is usually unnecessary, but if your brittle loses some crispness, a quick 5-minute warm-up at a low oven temperature (around 250˚F) can help restore that fresh-baked crunch without burning it.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in this brittle?

Absolutely! While pecans bring a lovely buttery flavor, you can experiment with almonds, walnuts, or even cashews. Just keep in mind that different nuts will affect the taste and texture slightly.

Is it necessary to use kosher salt in the recipe?

Kosher salt is preferred for its clean flavor and texture, but you can substitute with sea salt or regular table salt. Just adjust the quantity slightly if using finer salt to avoid over-salting.

Can I make this brittle without maple syrup?

Maple syrup is key for the unique flavor and sticky consistency here. If you need an alternative, honey could work, but expect a slightly different taste and texture.

How do I know when the brittle is done baking?

The brittle should be golden brown, especially around the edges, and the aroma will be nutty and rich. Don’t wait for dark browning, which could mean it’s overcooked and bitter.

What is the purpose of the olive oil in this brittle?

Olive oil adds richness and helps the syrup mixture coat the nuts evenly. It also contributes to the brittle’s tender bite rather than making it overly hard or brittle in the traditional sense.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pepita Brittle Recipe is one of those special treats that’s deceptively simple but truly memorable. Whether you’re looking to snack mindfully or impress guests with something homemade, this brittle offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy with every crunchy bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s a game-changer in the brittle world that you’ll want to keep on hand all year long.

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