The first time I popped a piece of Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle into my mouth, it felt like a cozy embrace on a chilly evening. The crunch of the toasted pecans mingled with the warm, buttery caramel and a subtle hint of bourbon, creating a symphony of flavors that instantly transported me to my grandmother’s kitchen. This recipe has become my go-to when I want to elevate a casual snack into something truly special—perfect for holiday gifting or just because I crave a little indulgence.
What I love most about this brittle is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a luscious treat that looks and tastes gourmet. Plus, the glossy finish and sprinkle of sea salt add that coveted touch of elegance, making it a delightful surprise for guests or a satisfying treat all for yourself. Let’s dive into creating this sweet masterpiece that’s sure to impress!
Why is Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle so special?
Simplicity reigns supreme with this recipe, featuring basic ingredients that anyone can find in their kitchen.
Irresistible flavor combines the rich, warm notes of bourbon with the crunch of toasted pecans for an unforgettable treat.
Perfect for gifting, it’s elegantly packaged in decorative bags, making it an ideal homemade gift for friends and family.
Versatile and fun—feel free to experiment with various nuts or even add a splash of maple syrup for a twist!
Quick and easy to prepare, you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time, perfect for those evenings when cravings strike!
Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle Ingredients
For the Brittle
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure for the brittle. Note: Ensure to use standard white sugar for best results.
• Light Corn Syrup – Helps prevent sugar crystallization, giving the brittle a smooth texture. Substitution: Can be replaced with dark corn syrup for a richer flavor.
• Water – Assists in dissolving sugar and controlling the cooking temperature. Note: Use filtered or tap water, as bottled water may not yield the same results.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor, contributing to the caramelization process. Note: Unsalted is preferred to control the saltiness of the finished product.
• Bourbon – Infuses the brittle with a warm, oaky flavor. Substitution: Whiskey or a non-alcoholic bourbon extract can be used.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a sweet, aromatic note. Note: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Baking Soda – Reacts with the hot mixture, creating bubbles that lighten the texture. Note: Ensure to add promptly to avoid loss of airiness.
• Chopped Pecans – Main ingredient, providing richness, crunch, and nuttiness. Note: Toast before mixing to enhance flavor.
• Sea Salt – For sprinkling on top, enhances sweetness and adds a savory note. Note: Use flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.
How to Make Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle
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Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet. Toast for 7-8 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
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Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with a Silpat mat or parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the brittle from sticking while it cools.
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Candy Prep: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3 minutes.
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Cook to Temperature: Increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to cook undisturbed until it reaches 290°F (143°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard crack stage necessary for a crisp brittle.
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Add Bourbon and Pecans: Quickly remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the toasted pecans and bourbon. Mix thoroughly to ensure all pecans are coated.
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Final Cooking: Return the saucepan to the heat and let the mixture reach 310°F (154°C). Remove from heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up—this is normal!
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Set Brittle: Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it thinly using a spatula and sprinkle with sea salt while still warm. Allow it to cool completely for at least 1 hour until hardened.
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Break and Enjoy: Once set, break the brittle into pieces and savor the sweet, crunchy goodness!
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over broken pieces before serving for an extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
For busy home cooks, preparing Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle ahead of time is a game changer! You can toast the pecans and prepare the caramel mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. Just keep the pecans refrigerated to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply reheat the caramel slightly to return it to a pourable state, combine it with the toasted pecans, and follow the final cooking steps. This approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, making your homemade brittle just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle
Airtight Container: Store your Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain its crunch and flavor.
Cool and Set: Ensure the brittle is completely cooled and hardened before storing to prevent it from becoming sticky.
Freezer Option: If you want to store it longer, wrap the brittle in parchment paper and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: For best flavor, allow the brittle to come to room temperature after freezing before enjoying, as this restores its delightful crunch.
What to Serve with Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle?
Elevate your dessert game and make your sweet moments even more memorable with these delightful pairings.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the crunchy brittle, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top adds indulgence, enhancing the bitterness of chocolate against the sweetness of the brittle.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries offer a bright, refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the candy.
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Bourbon Hot Chocolate: Serve it alongside warm bourbon-infused hot chocolate for a cozy, comforting dessert experience that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
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Espresso or Coffee: A cup of rich espresso or your favorite brewed coffee complements the sweet and nutty flavors, making for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
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Homemade Toffee: For a double treat, pair with homemade toffee for texture variety—it’s a sweet lover’s dream come true!
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Nutty Cheese Platter: Create a platter with sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese to provide a savory contrast, elevating a rustic snack to gourmet status.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top for added sweetness and a touch of autumn, enhancing the rich flavors of the brittle.
Expert Tips for Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle
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Prep in Advance: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting to avoid the mixture hardening too quickly during preparation.
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Use a Candy Thermometer: For perfect results, a candy thermometer is essential to monitor the cooking sugar accurately; this ensures your Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle reaches just the right texture.
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Stir Carefully: When adding the bourbon and pecans to the hot mixture, stir gently but quickly to prevent burning yourself and to coat all nuts thoroughly.
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Spread Evenly: Work swiftly when pouring the brittle onto the baking sheet—this helps prevent it from setting too quickly and creates an even thickness.
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Watch for Crystallization: Cook the sugar mixture without stirring once it reaches high heat, as stirring can cause unwanted crystallization, leading to a grainy brittle.
Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle Variations
Feel free to personalize your Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle for an even more delightful experience!
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Maple Infusion:
Swap a portion of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a rich, deep flavor. -
Nutty Variety:
Experiment with different nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts instead of pecans for unique textures. -
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with sweetness. -
Chocolate Drizzle:
Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the brittle for a sweet and visually appealing twist. -
Citrus Zest:
Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the mixture before pouring for a refreshing pop of flavor. -
Coconut Crunch:
Fold in toasted coconut flakes before pouring onto the baking sheet for extra flavor and a tropical touch. -
Flavored Liquor:
Substitute bourbon with flavored liqueurs like orange or coffee for an exciting new profile. -
Savory Herb:
Infuse with a hint of rosemary or thyme during cooking for an unexpected, herby dimension that elevates the sweetness.
Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pecans for my brittle?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for plump, firm nuts without dark spots or an overly shriveled appearance. Fresh pecans should have a pleasant, nutty aroma. If possible, try to buy them in bulk or from a store with high turnover to ensure freshness.
What’s the best way to store Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle?
To keep your Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This method helps maintain its delightful crunch. Just make sure it’s completely cooled and hardened before transferring it to storage to prevent any sticky mishaps!
Can I freeze Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the brittle individually in parchment paper and place it into a freezer-safe bag. Ensure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to restore its crispiness before indulging.
What should I do if my brittle turned out too hard or too soft?
Very! If your brittle is too hard, it may have cooked too long. Next time, try to monitor the temperature closely with a candy thermometer and remove it promptly when it reaches 310°F. On the other hand, if it’s too soft, it might not have cooked long enough; try cooking until it reaches the right temperature, and use a candy thermometer for precision!
Is this recipe safe for people with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that this recipe contains pecans and cannot be considered safe for those with nut allergies. However, if you or your loved ones are allergic, you may explore using seeds (like sunflower seeds) as a nut-free alternative, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ from the classic pecan brittle.
Can I make this recipe without bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid alcoholic ingredients, consider using a non-alcoholic bourbon extract to capture that rich flavor. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla or maple syrup can add a lovely depth without the alcohol, giving your brittle a unique twist while keeping it as delicious as ever.
Irresistible Salted Bourbon Pecan Brittle for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet. Toast for 7-8 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Line a baking sheet with a Silpat mat or parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the brittle from sticking while it cools.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3 minutes.
- Increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to cook undisturbed until it reaches 290°F (143°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Quickly remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the toasted pecans and bourbon. Mix thoroughly.
- Return the saucepan to the heat and let the mixture reach 310°F (154°C). Remove from heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda.
- Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it thinly using a spatula and sprinkle with sea salt while still warm. Allow it to cool completely for at least 1 hour until hardened.
- Once set, break the brittle into pieces and savor the sweet, crunchy goodness!