There’s something truly irresistible about the crunchy, nutty goodness of peanut brittle.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or looking for the perfect homemade gift, this classic confection never fails to delight.
Made with just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, homemade peanut brittle is surprisingly easy to whip up and always impresses with its addictive texture and rich flavor.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this delicious Peanut Brittle recipe!
Ingredients
You’ll Need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Before you begin, make sure to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
This will prevent the peanut brittle from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Cook the Mixture:
Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer into the mixture.
Allow the mixture to come to a boil, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
Add Peanuts and Butter:
Once the mixture reaches 300°F, carefully stir in the roasted peanuts and unsalted butter.
Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches 305°F (light amber color).
Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:
Once the mixture reaches 305°F, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
The mixture will bubble up, so be careful.
Spread onto Baking Sheet:
Immediately pour the hot peanut brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Use a spatula to quickly spread it out into an even layer, working as quickly as possible before it hardens.
Let Cool and Break into Pieces:
Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature, then break it into pieces using your hands or a kitchen mallet.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 80mg
FAQs
1. Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted peanuts?
While roasted peanuts are traditionally used in peanut brittle for their rich flavor and crunchy texture, you can certainly use raw peanuts if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that raw peanuts may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
2. Can I add other nuts or seeds to the peanut brittle?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your peanut brittle by adding other nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or cashews, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your taste preferences.
3. How do I know when the peanut brittle is done cooking?
The peanut brittle is done cooking when it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. At this temperature, the sugar mixture will turn golden brown and develop a hard, brittle texture when cooled. Be sure to keep a close eye on the temperature to avoid burning the mixture.
4. Can I make peanut brittle without a candy thermometer?
While using a candy thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure the peanut brittle reaches the proper temperature, you can also test the mixture using the cold water method. Simply drop a small amount of the hot sugar mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms hard, brittle threads, it’s ready.
5. How should I store homemade peanut brittle?
To keep your peanut brittle fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause the brittle to become sticky and lose its crisp texture. Enjoy within two weeks for the best taste and texture.