Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets are a delicious snack that has been a favorite of Texans for decades. This crunchy, sweet, and savory snack is made with a combination of corn, sugar, and bacon. The delicious flavor and texture of Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets make it a perfect snack for any occasion.
In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets recipe, why you’ll love it, the ingredients, step-by-step instructions for making it, nutrition information, storage tips, variations, and more. So let’s get started!
What is Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets?
Buc-ee’s, a chain of country stores, gas stations, and electric vehicle charging stations, was established and is owned by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III. The company is based in Lake Jackson, Texas. Its Beaver Nuggets are a popular snack in Texas that is made with a combination of corn, sugar, and bacon.
The ingredients are mixed together and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The result is a sweet, salty, and crunchy snack that is perfect for any occasion.
The recipe for Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets has been a closely guarded secret for years, but now we have the scoop on how to make them in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets Recipe?
There are many reasons why you’ll love this Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. All you need to do is mix together the ingredients, deep-fry them, and you’re done.
Second, the resulting snack is incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet and savory flavors make this snack irresistible.
Finally, the texture of the nuggets is perfect. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
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The Ingredients
- 4-5 ounces of premium plain or butter-flavored Puffcorn (highly recommended: Old Dutch for an authentic touch): Puffcorn serves as the base for this delightful treat, offering a light and airy texture. The choice of a premium brand like Old Dutch is suggested for an authentic and high-quality experience.
- 1/2 cup of tightly packed Imperial Sugar Light Brown Sugar, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness: Brown sugar contributes a rich and molasses-like sweetness, creating a well-balanced flavor in the coating for the Puffcorn.
- 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, chosen for its exceptional flavor profile: Vanilla extract adds a classic and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the Puffcorn coating.
- 1/2 cup of rich, unsalted butter, selected for its superior quality: Butter is a key component, providing richness and a buttery flavor to the coating. Using high-quality unsalted butter ensures control over the salt content in the recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon of aromatic maple extract, adding a hint of woodland warmth: Maple extract imparts a warm and inviting flavor, complementing the butter and enhancing the overall sensory experience of the Puffcorn.
- 1/4 cup of golden light corn syrup, sourced from the finest cornfields: Corn syrup contributes sweetness and helps create a glossy texture in the coating, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, the secret ingredient for a delightful texture: Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, contributing to the light and crispy texture of the Puffcorn coating.
- 1/4 teaspoon of butter extract/flavoring, elevating the buttery essence to perfection: Butter extract enhances the buttery flavor, ensuring that the Puffcorn coating is rich and indulgent. It adds an extra layer of depth to the overall taste.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Prepare the Puffcorn:
Place the premium Puffcorn in a large mixing bowl. Ensure it’s plain or butter-flavored for the authentic Buc-ee’s touch.
Step 3: Create the Caramel Mixture:
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the rich, unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the tightly packed Imperial Sugar Light Brown Sugar and golden light corn syrup to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil:
Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring consistently to prevent burning.
Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancements:
Stir in the baking soda, pure vanilla extract, aromatic maple extract, and butter extract/flavoring. Mix well to incorporate the flavors evenly.
Step 6: Coat the Puffcorn:
Pour the caramel mixture over the Puffcorn in the mixing bowl. Gently fold and stir until the Puffcorn is evenly coated with the caramel goodness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection:
Spread the coated Puffcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, creating an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure an even coating and golden perfection.
Step 8: Cool and Break Apart:
Once baked to a golden perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Beaver Nuggets cool on the sheet. Break apart any clusters to achieve bite-sized nuggets.
Step 9: Enjoy the Delightful Treat:
Once completely cooled, transfer the Beaver Nuggets to an airtight container. Revel in the addictive crunch and irresistible sweetness of your homemade Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets! These nuggets make for a delicious and iconic snack, capturing the essence of Buc-ee’s.
Notes
Here are a few tips that will help you get the best results when making Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets:
• Be sure to mix the dough until it has a smooth consistency.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough balls.
• Fry the Beaver Nuggets in small batches so that they cook evenly.
• Serve the Beaver Nuggets warm for maximum flavor.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
One serving of Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets contains approximately 200 calories, 8 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein.
How to Store Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets Recipe
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Beaver Nuggets will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Variations
There are many ways to vary this recipe to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dough for an extra smoky flavor.
• Use honey instead of sugar for a sweeter flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of chili powder for a hint of heat.
• Use cheddar cheese instead of bacon for a cheesy twist.
• Substitute the corn meal for crushed corn chips for a crunchier texture.
• Add a tablespoon of honey mustard for a tangy flavor.
• Substitute the bacon grease for olive oil for a healthier version.
Equipment
- Saucean
- Oven, etc.
Ingredients
- 4-5 ounces of premium plain or butter-flavored Puffcorn highly recommended: Old Dutch for an authentic touch
- 1/2 cup of tightly packed Imperial Sugar Light Brown Sugar ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract chosen for its exceptional flavor profile
- 1/2 cup of rich unsalted butter, selected for its superior quality
- 1/2 teaspoon of aromatic maple extract adding a hint of woodland warmth
- 1/4 cup of golden light corn syrup sourced from the finest cornfields
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda the secret ingredient for a delightful texture
- 1/4 teaspoon of butter extract/flavoring elevating the buttery essence to perfection
Instructions
Preheat And Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Prepare The Puffcorn:
- Place the premium Puffcorn in a large mixing bowl. Ensure it’s plain or butter-flavored for the authentic Buc-ee’s touch.
Create The Caramel Mixture:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the rich, unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the tightly packed Imperial Sugar Light Brown Sugar and golden light corn syrup to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Bring To A Boil:
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring consistently to prevent burning.
Add Flavor Enhancements:
- Stir in the baking soda, pure vanilla extract, aromatic maple extract, and butter extract/flavoring. Mix well to incorporate the flavors evenly.
Coat the Puffcorn:
- Pour the caramel mixture over the Puffcorn in the mixing bowl. Gently fold and stir until the Puffcorn is evenly coated with the caramel goodness.
Bake To Perfection:
- Spread the coated Puffcorn onto the prepared baking sheet, creating an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure an even coating.
Cool And Break Apart:
- Once baked to a golden perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Beaver Nuggets cool on the sheet.
- Break apart any clusters to achieve bite-sized nuggets.
Enjoy The Delightful Treat:
- Once completely cooled, transfer the Beaver Nuggets to an airtight container.
- Revel in the addictive crunch and irresistible sweetness of your homemade Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets stay fresh?
Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How many calories are in each serving of Beaver Nuggets?
Each serving of Beaver Nuggets (2 nuggets) contains approximately 200 calories.
Can I use vegetable oil instead of bacon grease?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil instead of bacon grease for a vegan version of the recipe.
Can I bake the Beaver Nuggets instead of deep-frying them?
Yes, you can bake the Beaver Nuggets in an oven preheated to 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Can I make the Beaver Nuggets ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Beaver Nuggets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the Beaver Nuggets?
Yes, you can freeze the Beaver Nuggets for up to 3 months.
What other ingredients can I add to the Beaver Nuggets?
You can add a variety of ingredients such as smoked paprika, chili powder, honey mustard, cheddar cheese, or crushed corn chips to the Beaver Nuggets for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets are a delicious and easy snack that everyone will love. The combination of sweet and savory flavors make this snack irresistible.
With just a few simple ingredients and a few steps, you can have a batch of these crunchy and flavorful nuggets ready in no time. So what are you waiting for
Get in the kitchen and make some Beaver Nuggets today!