Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
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
- 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
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the brittle from sticking. Set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Peanuts: Stir in the peanuts thoroughly to evenly distribute them throughout the candy mixture.
- 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.
- 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