Pecan Brittle

Name: Pecan Brittle
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: about 1 pound
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon butter, divided; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1 cup pecan halves; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Total Time Prep: 15 min. + cooling

Yield about 1 pound

Test Kitchen Approved

Sweet, nutty and a little buttery, pecan brittle is the perfect treat for the holiday season (or any season). Unlike some recipes, this one should be followed closely to achieve the best results.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon butter, divided
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 cup pecan halves
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Grease a 15x10x1-in. pan with 2 teaspoons butter; set aside.
In a 2-qt. microwave-safe glass dish, combine sugar and corn syrup. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes or until a candy thermometer reads 238° (soft-ball stage).
Add pecans. Microwave for 4 minutes or until a candy thermometer reads 300° (hard-crack stage). Mixture will be very hot. Vigorously stir in the baking soda, vanilla and remaining butter until blended.
Quickly pour into prepared pan; spread with a metal spatula as thin as possible. Cool completely; break into pieces. Store in an airtight container with waxed paper between layers.

Nutrition Facts

1 ounce-weight: 136 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

This is a favorite of my family. I love making this candy for Christmas.—Fern Newsom, Dubach, Louisiana

Recipe Creator