Pumpkin-and-sesame-seed brittle

Instructions

1. Line large cookie sheet with parchment paper and set on heatproof surface. Lightly coat a small metal spatula with canola oil.
2. Stir together pepitas, sesame seeds, salt, and cayenne in small bowl; set aside.
3. Brush bottom of small heavy-bottomed saucepan with 1 teaspoon oil. Add maple syrup and bring to simmer over medium heat. Cook, without stirring, but swirling the pan occasionally, until mixture turns dark amber and registers 285°F on candy thermometer.
4. Remove pan from heat and quickly stir in pepita mixture. Carefully pour mixture onto prepared cookie sheet and use oiled spatula to spread into about 7-inch circle. Let cool 5 minutes.
5. Using parchment, slide brittle onto cutting board and cut into 12 wedges. Let cool completely. Store at room temperature in airtight container with sheets of parchment between layers, up to 3 days.
6. Serving size: (1 wedge)