Name: Delicious Sea-Salted Quinoa Pecan Brittle
Ingredients: ¼ cup quinoa: Rinse and drain the quinoa to get rid of its natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter. Quinoa adds a pleasant crunch and is packed with protein and fiber.; ¼ cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener brings depth of flavor and pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of quinoa and pecans.; ¼ cup honey: A classic sweetening agent, honey complements the maple syrup and enhances the moisture content.; 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the brittle. It serves as the base for the sweet mixture.; 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Whether light or dark, brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the overall sweetness.; 1 tablespoon coconut oil: This oil helps achieve a firmer texture and imparts a subtle tropical flavor. Feel free to substitute with peanut or olive oil.; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For a lovely aromatic flavor, vanilla extract is a must-have, enhancing the sweetness of the brittle.; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavors of the other ingredients.; 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans: Rich in healthy fats and protein, pecans are the star of this brittle, providing a nutty flavor that complements other ingredients beautifully.; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: You can use black or white sesame seeds; they add subtle crunch and beautiful color to the dish.; Flaky sea salt (like Maldon): Sprinkled on top after baking, it produces a wonderful contrast to the sweet flavors and is essential to the recipe.

Description

Crunchy, sweet, and salty Sea-Salted Quinoa Pecan Brittle with maple syrup, honey, and pecans—perfect for snacks or gifts during the holidays.

Ingredients

Scale

¼ cup quinoa: Rinse and drain the quinoa to get rid of its natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter. Quinoa adds a pleasant crunch and is packed with protein and fiber.
¼ cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener brings depth of flavor and pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of quinoa and pecans.
¼ cup honey: A classic sweetening agent, honey complements the maple syrup and enhances the moisture content.
2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the brittle. It serves as the base for the sweet mixture.
3 tablespoons brown sugar: Whether light or dark, brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the overall sweetness.
1 tablespoon coconut oil: This oil helps achieve a firmer texture and imparts a subtle tropical flavor. Feel free to substitute with peanut or olive oil.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For a lovely aromatic flavor, vanilla extract is a must-have, enhancing the sweetness of the brittle.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavors of the other ingredients.
1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans: Rich in healthy fats and protein, pecans are the star of this brittle, providing a nutty flavor that complements other ingredients beautifully.
2 tablespoons sesame seeds: You can use black or white sesame seeds; they add subtle crunch and beautiful color to the dish.
Flaky sea salt (like Maldon): Sprinkled on top after baking, it produces a wonderful contrast to the sweet flavors and is essential to the recipe.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a half sheet pan (13×18 inches) with foil and non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the brittle.
Rinse the quinoa: Rinse ¼ cup quinoa under cold water for about 1 minute to remove saponins, then drain and set aside. This step is critical for reducing any bitter flavors.
Combine the sweet ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoons salted butter, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon coconut oil, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Microwave this mixture for 1-2 minutes until melted, then stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Add the nuts and seeds: Stir in 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans, the rinsed quinoa you set aside, and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
Spread on the pan: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared half sheet pan, ensuring a uniform thickness for even cooking.
Bake to perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Afterward, rotate the pan and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown, taking care to watch closely to prevent burning.
Salt and cool: Once removed from the oven, immediately sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top. Let the brittle cool completely on the pan; it will firm up as it cools.
Break into pieces: Once fully cooled, break the brittle into pieces and store them in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

Following these steps will lead you to a delectable treat that’s sure to impress your taste buds!