Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it liberally with nonstick cooking spray.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the pepitas, sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Continue boiling until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
While the mixture is boiling, in a separate bowl, mix together the butter, vanilla extract, cayenne pepper, and baking soda.
Once the boiling mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the butter mixture.
The mixture will foam and bubble.
Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a silicone spatula.
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature before breaking it into pieces.
Store the brittle in an airtight container lined with waxed paper.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Serving Tip:Enjoy this brittle as a standalone snack or chop it into smaller pieces to sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt.Wine Advice:Pair this spicy treat with a glass of chilled Riesling to complement its sweet and spicy flavors.