### Chef John's Pumpkin Seed Brittle Recipe: A Crispy, Sweet Delight
#### Introduction
Chef John’s pumpkin seed brittle is a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of pumpkin seeds with a sweet, crunchy texture. This recipe will guide you through making this delicious confection at home. Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of this crowd-pleasing candy.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
#### Equipment
- Large saucepan with a heavy bottom
- Spatula or silicone baking mat
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by roasting your pumpkin seeds. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Let the roasted seeds cool completely.
#### Step 2: Make the Syrup
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and melted butter. Stir until all the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Allow it to boil for about 5 minutes or until it reaches a soft ball stage (around 236°F / 113°C), which is ideal for candy-making.
#### Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Seeds
Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully add the cooled pumpkin seeds to the hot syrup and stir gently until they are evenly coated. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot!
#### Step 4: Spread on Baking Sheet
Pour the pumpkin seed mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula or silicone mat to spread it out into a thin, even layer. Ensure that the mixture is not too thick; it should be about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
#### Step 5: Cool and Break
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
#### Step 6: Store Properly
Store the pumpkin seed brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can place it in the refrigerator.
### Tips and Tricks
- **Temperature Check:** Use a candy thermometer to monitor the syrup’s temperature accurately.
- **Safety First:** Work with care when handling hot ingredients.
- **Flavor Variations:** Experiment by adding other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for different flavor profiles.
#### Conclusion
Chef John's pumpkin seed brittle is a simple yet impressive recipe that can be enjoyed as a snack or given as a gift. The combination of the crunchy texture and the nutty taste of pumpkin seeds makes it a delightful treat. Follow these steps to make this candy yourself and enjoy its festive flavors year-round!
By following these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious batch of Chef John’s pumpkin seed brittle that is perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Happy baking!