Looking for a snack that’s crunchy, sweet, and utterly irresistible? This Peanut Brittle is the answer! With its perfect balance of caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, this treat is as satisfying as it is delicious. Every bite is a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of rich, nutty flavor. And the best part? You can make it at home in just a few simple steps. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love Peanut Brittle
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re craving something sweet to nibble on while watching a movie, looking for a homemade gift, or just indulging in a little treat, this peanut brittle is the way to go. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect as a snack, gift, or a sweet treat for any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, this brittle is easy on your wallet but doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Quick and Easy: It only takes a few minutes of active cooking, and the rest is just waiting for it to cool.
Customizable: Add a pinch of sea salt for that sweet-salty combo or even throw in some chocolate for a richer flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit, with both kids and adults loving the crunchy texture and caramelized taste.
Ingredients in Peanut Brittle
Here’s what you’ll need to make this addictively crunchy snack:
Sugar: The base for the sweet caramel flavor that makes this brittle so irresistible.
Peanuts: The star of the show. Roasted peanuts add a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet caramel.
Corn Syrup: This helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring your brittle comes out perfectly smooth and glossy.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Baking Soda: This is what gives the brittle its light, airy texture, making it not too hard to break apart.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the peanuts.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this crispy, nutty masterpiece:
Prep Your Workspace:
Before you begin, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will make it easy to remove the brittle once it’s ready.
Cook the Sugar Mixture:
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to cook without stirring until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard crack stage, and it’s what gives your brittle its satisfying crunch.
Add the Peanuts:
Once the sugar mixture has reached the right temperature, carefully add the peanuts to the pan. Stir well to coat the peanuts in the caramel mixture.
Finish the Brittle:
Remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful. Stir until everything is well combined.
Pour and Cool:
Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out into an even layer. Let it cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled and hardened, break it into pieces.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the brittle has cooled and hardened, break it into chunks and enjoy! You’ll be snacking on this crunchy, sweet treat for days to come.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 200
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cool Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
How to Serve Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle is perfect for snacking on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a chilled glass of milk. You can pack it up and give it as a homemade gift, or even crumble it over your favorite ice cream for an added crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Be sure to watch the sugar mixture carefully as it cooks, especially once it starts boiling. It can burn quickly if you’re not paying attention.
- If you want a smoother texture, make sure to stir in the baking soda quickly, as it helps the brittle to set faster.
- If you want to add extra flavor, try tossing in a handful of chocolate chips right after the brittle is poured onto the baking sheet. They’ll melt slightly and create a rich chocolatey layer.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use different nuts in the brittle?
Yes! You can swap the peanuts for cashews, almonds, or any other nut you prefer.
2. Do I need a candy thermometer?
A candy thermometer is highly recommended to make sure the brittle reaches the perfect hard crack stage. Without it, the brittle might not set properly.
3. Can I add chocolate to my peanut brittle?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate is a great way to make the brittle even more indulgent. You can melt some chocolate and spread it over the brittle once it cools, or mix in chocolate chips just before pouring it onto the baking sheet.
4. How do I store the peanut brittle?
Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for up to two weeks.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can easily make this ahead and store it for later. It keeps well for a couple of weeks, so it’s great for prepping in advance.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this peanut brittle is naturally gluten-free as it only uses sugar, peanuts, and a few other pantry staples.
7. Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
While honey could work as a substitute, it will change the flavor and texture of the brittle, making it slightly less crispy.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! You can easily double or even triple the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger pan and ensure you have enough space to pour the mixture.
9. Why is my peanut brittle too hard?
If your brittle is too hard, it may have cooked for too long. Try to avoid letting the sugar mixture cook past the hard crack stage.
10. Can I add a pinch of sea salt to my brittle?
Yes, adding a pinch of sea salt is a great way to enhance the flavor and balance out the sweetness.
Conclusion
Peanut brittle is one of those nostalgic treats that brings a smile to your face every time you take a bite. With its crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty flavor, it’s sure to be a hit in any household. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own, sharing it with friends, or giving it as a gift, this homemade brittle will be your new go-to snack. Enjoy!
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Peanut Brittle
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Boiling, Candy-making
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peanut Brittle is a crunchy, sweet, and salty treat made from roasted peanuts coated in a rich caramelized sugar syrup, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted peanuts (roasted or raw)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, stop stirring and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Stir in the peanuts, butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peanuts are evenly coated.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so stir gently until combined.
- Pour the peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, about 1-2 hours. Once cooled, break it into pieces.
Notes
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can burn easily. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- For a twist, you can add other nuts like almonds or cashews in place of some of the peanuts.
- Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg