Peanut Brittle Recipe

Peanut brittle is one of those classic candies that never goes out of style. It’s got that perfect balance of sweet and salty, with the crunch of peanuts and the satisfying crispiness of the brittle. Whether you’re making it for yourself or giving it away as a gift, this peanut brittle recipe will deliver a homemade treat that’s better than anything you can buy at the store. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make once you get the hang of it!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Brittle

Perfect Crunch

The key to great peanut brittle is that crispy, crackly texture. The sugar mixture hardens beautifully as it cools, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The peanuts add a nice chew, and together they make for an irresistible combination.

Sweet and Salty

Peanut brittle offers that irresistible sweet and salty combo that we all crave. The sugar creates the sweet base, while the roasted peanuts add that salty contrast. The balance of flavors makes this candy dangerously addictive!

Homemade Treat

Making peanut brittle at home lets you control the quality of ingredients. No preservatives, no artificial flavors—just the pure sweetness of sugar and the natural goodness of roasted peanuts. You can also customize the recipe by adding a touch of cinnamon, vanilla, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor.

Quick and Easy

Once you have all your ingredients ready, the actual cooking process is fairly simple. The most important part is getting the sugar mixture to the right temperature to ensure the brittle sets up perfectly. With a candy thermometer, you’ll get the right consistency every time. It’s the kind of treat you can whip up in about 30 minutes or less!

Ingredients

To make this delicious peanut brittle, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (280g) roasted unsalted peanuts (you can use salted peanuts if you prefer a saltier flavor)

Instructions

Now, let’s get started! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfect peanut brittle in no time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Before you start, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan when it cools. Make sure your baking sheet has enough space for spreading the brittle once it’s ready.

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a medium to large saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. This should take about 5 minutes. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, stop stirring and let it cook undisturbed. You’ll want to monitor the temperature closely. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature of the syrup. Cook the syrup until it reaches 300°F (150°C), also known as the hard crack stage. This is the point where the sugar hardens when dropped into cold water, which is the perfect texture for peanut brittle.

Step 3: Add the Butter and Peanuts

Once your sugar mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat immediately. Stir in the cubed butter until it melts and combines smoothly with the syrup. After that, add the roasted peanuts and stir to incorporate. Be careful—once the butter is added, the mixture will bubble up a bit, so make sure to stir gently.

Step 4: Add the Baking Soda and Vanilla

Next, add the baking soda and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture quickly. The baking soda helps aerate the brittle and gives it a lighter texture. The vanilla adds a lovely flavor that complements the sweetness of the candy.

Step 5: Pour the Brittle onto the Baking Sheet

Carefully pour the hot peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture out evenly, ensuring that the peanuts are spread across the entire sheet.

Step 6: Let It Cool and Harden

Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature. It will set up as it cools, becoming firm and crunchy. This should take about 30 minutes to an hour. Once it’s fully cooled, break it into pieces.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

Now that your peanut brittle is ready, you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunch. If you’re gifting it, you can wrap it in decorative cellophane or put it in a cute jar for an added touch of charm.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peanut Brittle

• Candy Thermometer: A candy thermometer is a must for this recipe. Without it, it’s hard to tell when the sugar syrup has reached the right temperature. The hard crack stage is crucial for ensuring that the brittle will set properly.
• Don’t Stir After It Boils: Once the sugar syrup starts boiling, resist the urge to stir. Stirring at this point can cause the sugar to crystallize and ruin the texture of your brittle.
• Peanut Variations: You can experiment with different nuts like almonds or cashews if you want to change up the flavor. You can also use salted peanuts for an extra salty kick if you love that sweet and salty contrast.
• Add-Ins: Some people like to add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to their peanut brittle for a little extra flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top right after pouring the brittle can enhance the sweet and salty combination.
• Avoid Humidity: Keep in mind that humidity can affect the texture of peanut brittle. If it’s particularly humid where you are, the brittle may not set as hard as it should. Try making it on a dry day for the best results.

Conclusion

Making homemade peanut brittle is so much easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create this delightful, crunchy treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it yourself, sharing it with friends, or gifting it to loved ones, peanut brittle is always a hit. The sweet and salty flavors, along with that satisfying crunch, make it a truly irresistible candy. So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the homemade goodness of peanut brittle!

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