Name: Peanut Brittle Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup light corn syrup; ¼ cup water; 1 cup roasted salted peanuts; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; pinch of salt (optional if peanuts are unsalted)

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There’s something absolutely joyful about the crackle and snap of homemade candy, and this Peanut Brittle Recipe delivers that old-fashioned magic in every buttery, golden shard! Sweet, salty, and perfectly crunchy, it’s a classic treat that looks impressive but comes together in just minutes. With just a handful of ingredients and a little kitchen alchemy, you’ll transform pantry staples into a nostalgic candy that’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply sneaking by the piece. Let’s dive in and discover just how easy and delightful this Peanut Brittle Recipe can be!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of a great Peanut Brittle Recipe is how a short list of simple ingredients can create such an irresistible treat. Every ingredient has a special role: sugar for sweetness, corn syrup for that signature snap, peanuts for crunch, and a touch of vanilla for warmth. Let’s break it down:

Granulated sugar (1 cup): This is the heart of the brittle, giving it sweetness and the signature golden crunch when caramelized.
Light corn syrup (½ cup): Acts as the magic glue, helping the sugar set smoothly without crystallizing and providing that glossy finish.
Water (¼ cup): Helps dissolve the sugar and allows the ingredients to meld together before reaching syrupy perfection.
Roasted salted peanuts (1 cup): Add rich, nutty flavor and salty crunch; if you use unsalted, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Gives the brittle a rich, buttery undertone and helps with that perfect snap.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lends a lovely warmth and depth to the flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): This is the secret to brittle’s airy crunch—when mixed in, it creates bubbles that lighten the candy.
Pinch of salt (optional): If your peanuts aren’t already salted, a little bit of salt brightens all the flavors.

How to Make Peanut Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with a bit of butter. This makes sure your beautiful brittle won’t stick and comes up easily in shiny, crunchy shards. Set the pan aside nearby—you’ll want it close for quick pouring!

Step 2: Combine the Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water

In a medium saucepan, stir together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water until well mixed. Set the pan over medium heat and keep stirring constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture looks clear and smooth.

Step 3: Cook to Hard Crack Stage

Now, attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Turn up the heat to medium-high and let the mixture cook without stirring. Watch as it bubbles away and turns a pale golden color. Let it reach 300°F (the hard crack stage)—this usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, so keep a close eye on the thermometer!

Step 4: Add Peanuts, Butter, Vanilla, and Salt

Once you’ve hit that magic temperature, quickly stir in the roasted peanuts, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if your peanuts are unsalted. The butter melts and everything comes together into a thick, golden syrup.

Step 5: Stir in the Baking Soda

Remove the pan from the heat and immediately sprinkle in the baking soda. This is the most exciting part—the mixture will bubble up and foam, which creates that signature brittle texture. Stir swiftly and carefully to mix everything before it starts to set!

Step 6: Spread and Cool

Quickly pour that hot, foamy candy onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a greased spatula to spread it as thinly as possible. The thinner, the better for that shattering crunch. Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature (about 30 minutes), then break it into pieces and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Peanut Brittle Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive finish, you can sprinkle sea salt flakes or a dusting of cocoa powder over the still-warm brittle, giving it a gourmet touch. You might also drizzle melted chocolate on top once it’s cool for an extra-decadent treat—little touches like these make your Peanut Brittle Recipe stand out.

Side Dishes

Peanut brittle is classic on its own, but it shines alongside other treats at dessert tables. Try pairing it with bowls of fresh fruit, creamy vanilla ice cream, or a plate of chocolate-dipped pretzels. That salty-sweet crunch fits right in with almost any dessert spread!

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap your Peanut Brittle Recipe pieces in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for adorable homemade gifts. Stack them in jars for party favors, or layer shards atop frosted cakes for an elegant crunch. It even makes a fun topping for holiday cookie trays. Think beyond the candy dish for this versatile treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve broken your brittle into pieces, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crisp and delicious for up to two weeks—a lifesaver for make-ahead entertaining or snack cravings!

Freezing

While peanut brittle doesn’t love humidity, it actually freezes quite well. Place the cooled shards in a zip-top freezer bag, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to two months. Let it come back to room temperature uncovered before enjoying, so it keeps that crunchy snap.

Reheating

Peanut brittle is best enjoyed at room temperature, but if yours gets a touch sticky, you can re-crisp it. Spread pieces on a baking sheet and pop into a 275°F oven for about 5 minutes, then let cool—the crunch returns as it cools down!

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Try swapping in cashews, almonds, pecans, or even a mix. Just use the same amount, and make sure they’re roasted for the best flavor in your Peanut Brittle Recipe.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

A candy thermometer is the easiest way to guarantee perfect results, but if you don’t have one, you can drop a bit of the hot syrup into cold water—it should harden instantly into brittle threads (the “hard crack” stage).

Why did my brittle turn out chewy, not crunchy?

This usually means the mixture didn’t reach the proper temperature. Make sure to bring it all the way to 300°F for that signature snap in your Peanut Brittle Recipe.

Can I make this ahead of the holidays?

Yes! Peanut brittle keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, making it ideal for gift giving or party prepping.

How do I clean the pan after making peanut brittle?

Just fill the pan with hot water and let it soak—the sugar will dissolve and cleanup will be a breeze. No need to worry about scrubbing sticky messes from your Peanut Brittle Recipe adventure!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fail-proof treat that delivers crowd-pleasing crunch and nostalgic charm, give this Peanut Brittle Recipe a try. It’s simple, satisfying, and brings a dash of sweetness to any day—so roll up your sleeves and let the candy-making memories begin!

Peanut Brittle Recipe

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4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus cooling)
Yield: About 1 pound of brittle (10 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Peanut Brittle at home with this easy recipe. Crunchy, sweet, and satisfying, this homemade candy is perfect for sharing during the holidays or as a special treat anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup water
1 cup roasted salted peanuts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt (optional if peanuts are unsalted)

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Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it and set aside.
Cook Sugar Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, then attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
Add Peanuts and Flavorings: Stir in peanuts, butter, vanilla, and salt if using. Remove from heat and quickly mix in baking soda.
Spread and Cool: Pour the hot brittle onto the prepared sheet, spread thinly, and let it cool completely. Break into pieces and serve.