brittle

During the holidays, I keep homemade brittle in pretty packages to ensure that unexpected guests don't leave empty handed. This year, I made two different types of brittle: a classic peanut brittle and a more exotic, spicy brittle with pine nuts. However, it's easy to make brittle with any nut, seed, spice, or dried fruit.
Making brittle can be a daunting task, but with a couple of helpful tips, the procedure is uncomplicated. A candy thermometer is essential. There's a limited amount of time between brittle and burned sugar disaster, so have all the nuts and other ingredients ready and waiting. When the amount of steam produced by the boiling water and sugar mixture lessens, you have reached the hard-crack stage. Most importantly, remember to be patient! Get started on this crunchy, sweet, and spicy gift when you read more

Last week I was asked to make a sweet contribution to BabySugar's baby shower. Since the shower was a surprise, I decided what kind of cake to make. Filled with Fall flavors, this pumpkin cake with pecan brittle and whipped cream-cheese frosting is to die for. The cake is moist, rich, and delicious. The crisp pecan brittle provides a snappy texture while the creamy frosting is not overly sugary. This cake was a huge success at the party and it was devoured in mere minutes. On a Thanksgiving table it would be a festive alternative to the classic pumpkin pie. To look at the recipe, read more

When planning a picnic always select an easy-to-eat, portable dessert. Cakes and pies are a show-stopping finish to a meal, but save those for the dinner party.

Pumpkin seed brittle is an appropriately sweet treat for a picnic at a pumpkin patch. The brittle can be made well in advance and it doesn't matter if it breaks while in transit.

This recipe is also fun to make at a pumpkin carving party: It uses up the pumpkin seeds and guests can take some home as a favor.

To check out the technique behind pumpkin seed brittle, read more

All of this cookie talk has me mentally prepping for the upcoming holiday season. This year I hope to make baskets of cookies and candies for my neighbors, and while it's too early to start baking, it's never too early to start planning. My list of treats is already quite long, but when I saw rainbowdarling's recipe for Almond Roca, I knew I had to add it to the group. The best thing about it is that it's so adaptable. If you prefer pecans, use those instead. If you like peppermint, crush some up and add it to the mix!

To learn how to make your own homemade Almond Roca, read more