Pecan Brittle

Directions

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   *NOTE: For a nut-free version, use pretzel pieces in place of pecans.
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   1. Preheat oven to 200°F. Place the pecan pieces in a pan and put them in the oven to warm while you complete the following steps. Butter a large sheet pan with 1 Tablespoon of butter and set aside.
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   2. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup and cream. Heat over medium until the mixture boils. If needed, you can use a wet pastry brush to 'wash' the side of the pot at any time.
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   3. Insert a candy thermometer into the sugar mixture. Heat over medium heat until the temperature reaches about 280°F.
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   4. Stir in the butter, one piece at a time, until it is all incorporated. Click the thermometer back in and cook until the temperature comes back up to 280°F (the temperature drops when you add the butter).
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   5. Remove the pot from the heat and add the nuts (or pretzels), vanilla, baking soda, and salt. Stir well.
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   6. Quickly dump the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use two forks to spread it out. Let it sit for at least 4 hours (overnight is best), then break into pieces.
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   7. Bag the pieces quickly and give them away - OR YOU'LL EAT THE WHOLE BATCH. Yes, I AM speaking from experience.