We’ve crafted this Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle Recipe to bring a bold twist to a classic candy favorite. Imagine the smoky crunch of bacon paired with toasted pecans and a splash of bourbon that adds depth and warmth—it’s the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and irresistible.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle, we start by gathering these essential ingredients in the order they’re used, ensuring each one enhances the smoky, sweet, and nutty flavors that make this treat unforgettable.
- Bacon: 8 ounces, cooked until crispy and crumbled, to provide that signature smoky crunch.
- Pecans: 1 cup, toasted in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes until fragrant, adding rich, buttery depth.
- Bourbon: 2 tablespoons, for infusing warm, oaky notes that elevate the brittle’s complexity.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, as the base for creating the glossy, golden caramel that forms the candy’s core.
- Light corn syrup: ½ cup, to help achieve the perfect chewy yet snap-worthy texture.
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, melted, for a creamy smoothness that balances the sweetness.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, to introduce airiness and ensure the brittle sets with an ideal brittle-like snap.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for a subtle, aromatic finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to amplify the sweet-salty contrast that makes our Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle truly addictive.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle, let’s gather the essential tools that ensure a smooth and successful candy-making process. Having the right equipment on hand helps us achieve that perfect, crispy texture while safely handling high temperatures.
Here’s a list of the key items we recommend, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This is crucial for melting and cooking the sugar mixture evenly. We prefer one that holds at least 4 quarts to prevent overflow and allow for vigorous boiling.
- Candy Thermometer: For precise temperature monitoring—aim for hard crack stage around 300°F (149°C)—to guarantee the brittle sets correctly without burning.
- Baking Sheet or Rimmed Tray: A sturdy 9×13-inch sheet works best for pouring and spreading the hot brittle mixture. Line it with parchment paper for easy release.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: These prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, ensuring our brittle releases without breaking.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Ideal for stirring the ingredients on the stovetop, as it withstands high heat without melting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, so use a set of dry and liquid measuring tools for ingredients like bourbon and sugar.
- Frying Pan: Specifically for cooking the bacon to crispy perfection, adding that smoky flavor we love.
- Oven (if toasting pecans): A standard oven preheated to 350°F helps us toast the pecans for enhanced nutty depth, though a skillet works as an alternative.
With these tools prepared, we’re set to transition seamlessly from our ingredients to the cooking steps ahead.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment prepared, let’s embark on crafting our Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle. We’ll walk you through each step with precision to achieve that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we need to prepare our key components for optimal texture and taste. Begin by cooking the bacon: In a frying pan over medium heat, fry 8 ounces of bacon until it’s crispy and golden—about 8 to 10 minutes—then drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces for that irresistible smoky crunch. Next, toast the pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spread 1 cup of pecans on a baking sheet, roasting them for 8 to 10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned to enhance their nutty essence.
For the remaining ingredients, measure them accurately to ensure success:
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, to form the base of our brittle’s shiny, caramelized coating.
- Light corn syrup: ½ cup, for a smooth, glossy texture that prevents crystallization.
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, cubed and softened, to add rich creaminess.
- Bourbon: 2 tablespoons, for a warm, oaky depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, to create the airy, brittle snap.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance the sweetness and amplify the bacon’s savoriness.
Cook the Brittle
With ingredients prepped, we move to the cooking phase where the magic happens. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and ¼ cup water, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture dissolves and begins to boil—about 5 minutes. Attach your candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring, allowing the syrup to reach hard crack stage at 300°F, which takes around 10 to 15 minutes; the bubbling liquid will transform into a golden, aromatic caramel with hints of bourbon’s warmth emerging as you add it later.
Once the temperature hits 300°F, remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the unsalted butter, bourbon, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt—the mixture will foam and bubble vigorously, releasing an enticing aroma of smoky bacon and toasted nuts. Immediately fold in the crumbled bacon and toasted pecans for a hearty, crunchy contrast, then pour the hot, glossy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with your heat-resistant spatula to about ¼-inch thickness for that signature brittle snap and visual appeal.
Cool and Break
To finish our brittle, let the poured mixture cool on the baking sheet at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it hardens completely—the surface will set into a shiny, golden layer with visible flecks of bacon and pecans, offering a tempting contrast of textures and flavors. Once cooled and firm, use your hands or a mallet to break it into irregular pieces, about 1 to 2 inches in size, for easy snacking and that satisfying, audible crack that makes this treat so addictive. Store the pieces in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the joys of our Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle is its make-ahead convenience, allowing us to prepare this smoky, sweet treat in advance for effortless entertaining or snacking. By planning ahead, we ensure the bourbon-infused flavors remain vibrant while maintaining that irresistible crisp texture. Let’s break down the key strategies.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
We can streamline our process by prepping components ahead of time to save effort during the main cooking day:
- Cook the bacon: Fry or bake the bacon until crispy, then crumble it and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the smoky crunch intact without sogginess.
- Toast the pecans: Oven-toast the pecans ahead and let them cool completely before transferring to a sealed bag or container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week, enhancing their nutty aroma when added later.
- Measure dry ingredients: Combine sugar, corn syrup, baking soda, and salt in a bowl, cover it tightly, and set aside in a cool, dry place for up to 24 hours to avoid any moisture absorption.
Making the Full Brittle Ahead
For complete make-ahead preparation, we follow the full recipe and focus on proper storage to preserve quality:
- Cool and store immediately: After pouring the hot mixture onto the baking sheet and letting it harden, break the brittle into pieces once fully cooled. Place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Storage options: Keep the container at room temperature in a cool, dry spot for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months—the bourbon’s warmth and pecans’ crunch hold up beautifully.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 weeks | Use an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent humidity. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 month | Wrap pieces individually in parchment to avoid condensation softening the texture. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before serving to restore the bacon’s smokiness. |
Reviving and Serving Tips
If we’ve made the brittle ahead, we can easily refresh it for optimal enjoyment:
- Check for freshness: Before serving, inspect for any softening due to moisture. If needed, spread pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes to recapture that perfect snap.
- Pairing ideas: We love serving our make-ahead brittle as a topping for ice cream or in gift bags, where the bourbon’s depth shines through even after storage.
By incorporating these tips, we maximize the Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle‘s flavor and texture, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle to deliver a perfect blend of flavors that’ll wow your taste buds. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a fun way to elevate your snacking.
Give it a try and see how it adds excitement to your gatherings. We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle?
Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle is a flavorful twist on classic candy, combining smoky bacon, toasted pecans, and warm bourbon for a sweet-salty crunch. It’s a homemade treat that blends rich, nutty flavors with a hard, brittle texture, perfect for snacking or gifting.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need crispy bacon, toasted pecans, bourbon, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. These ingredients create a balance of smoky, sweet, and nutty tastes, with accurate measurements ensuring the perfect texture.
What equipment is required to make Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle?
Essential tools include a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even cooking, a candy thermometer for precise temperature, a baking sheet with parchment paper, a wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and a frying pan for bacon. An oven helps toast the pecans.
How do I prepare Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle?
Start by cooking bacon until crispy and toasting pecans. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan, heat to hard crack stage, then add butter, bourbon, baking soda, vanilla, and salt. Mix in bacon and pecans, pour onto a lined baking sheet, cool, and break into pieces.
Can I make Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle ahead of time?
Yes, prepare bacon and pecans in advance, and measure dry ingredients to save time. Fully make the brittle, cool it, and store it immediately. It keeps its flavor and crunch when stored properly, making it ideal for planning ahead for events.
How should I store Bourbon Bacon Pecan Brittle?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 3 months. To revive crispness, warm in the oven before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What are some tips for the best results?
Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperatures, measure ingredients precisely, and ensure the mixture reaches hard crack stage. Toast pecans for enhanced flavor, and store in a cool, dry place. Pair with ice cream or gift in bags for a delightful treat.