Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Increase heat to high and bring mixture to a boil. Do not stir.
4. Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 300°F.
5. Remove from heat and stir in sunflower seeds and vanilla extract.
6. Quickly stir in baking soda until mixture is light and foamy.
7. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Let cool completely, then break into pieces.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Cooking temperature: Medium to high heat
- Candy temperature: 300°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 pound of brittle
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave syrup.
- Roasted sunflower seeds can be substituted with other nuts or seeds such as almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Use dark corn syrup instead of light for a richer flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar mixture as it can cause severe burns.
- Use a silicone spatula to stir in baking soda as it can react with metal utensils.
- Work quickly when adding sunflower seeds and baking soda as the mixture will harden fast.
Storage instructions:
- Store brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- If brittle becomes sticky, place it in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to re-crisp.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve brittle on a platter with fresh fruit and cheese for a sweet and savory snack.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with sea salt for a salty-sweet flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a cheese board or charcuterie platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If brittle is too hard, reduce cooking time by a few minutes.
- If brittle is too soft, increase cooking time by a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar mixture as it can cause severe burns.
- Store brittle in an airtight container to prevent moisture from softening it.
Food history:
- Brittle is a type of candy that originated in the Middle East and was brought to Europe by the Crusaders.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, nutty, and crunchy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A