Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe

Introduction

Peanut brittle is a classic, crunchy candy that combines sweet caramel with roasted peanuts for a perfect treat. Making it at home is easier than you think and yields a fresh, delightful snack that’s perfect for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients

• 2 1/3 cups sugar
• 2/3 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 cup salted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups peanuts

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 305°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly whisk in the cubed butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
5. Step 5: Stir in the peanuts evenly, then immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly.
6. Step 6: Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely until hardened, then break into pieces and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the peanuts lightly before adding them to the mixture.
• Swap salted butter for unsalted if you prefer less saltiness; adjust added salt accordingly.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use a candy thermometer for best results to avoid under- or over-cooking the brittle.

Storage

Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, which can make the brittle sticky. If pieces soften, gently warm them in a low oven to restore crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?

Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans can be used to make variations of brittle with different flavors and textures.

How do I know when the brittle mixture is ready?

The mixture is ready when it reaches 305°F, also called the hard crack stage, on a candy thermometer. This ensures the brittle will harden properly without being chewy.

Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe

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4.4 from 132 reviews

A classic homemade peanut brittle recipe that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavor with a satisfyingly crunchy texture. This easy-to-make candy combines sugar, corn syrup, butter, and roasted peanuts into a golden brittle that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 24 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 2 1/3 cups sugar
• 2/3 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 cup salted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups peanuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the brittle from sticking. Set aside.
2. Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, mix together sugar and corn syrup. Place over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Cook to Hard Crack Stage: Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue cooking without stirring until the temperature reaches 305°F (the hard crack stage), which ensures the brittle will harden properly.
4. Add Butter, Vanilla, and Leavening Agents: Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly whisk in the cubed salted butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. The baking soda causes the mixture to foam and aerate, creating a lighter brittle texture.
5. Incorporate Peanuts: Stir in the peanuts thoroughly to evenly distribute them throughout the candy mixture.
6. Pour and Cool: Immediately pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until hard.
7. Break Into Pieces: Once cooled and hardened, break the brittle into pieces of your desired size for serving or storage.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for the brittle’s perfect texture.
• Peanuts can be substituted with other nuts like almonds or cashews if desired.
• Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp.
• Be cautious while working with hot sugar mixtures to avoid burns.
• If you prefer a less sweet brittle, reduce sugar by a small amount but be aware it might affect the final texture.

Keywords: peanut brittle, homemade peanut brittle, candy recipe, easy brittle, crunchy peanut candy