Description
This classic Peanut Brittle recipe is a delightful, crunchy candy made with sugar, corn syrup, and salted peanuts. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it yields a sweet, nutty treat perfect for snacking or gifting. The brittle is cooked on the stovetop, then cooled and broken into pieces for a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Brittle Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (170 g) light corn syrup
- ¼ cup (59 g) water
- 1 cup (146 g) salted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet and ingredients: Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. Measure out the butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract so they are ready to add when needed.
- Combine sugar mixture: In a medium, heavy-bottom pot or saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place over medium-high heat and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
- Cook to 280°F and add peanuts: Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture without touching the pot bottom. When the temperature reaches 280°F, add the salted peanuts to the pot.
- Cook to 300°F: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage, ensuring the candy will set properly.
- Remove from heat and add flavorings: Take the pot off the heat. Quickly stir in the room temperature butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam due to the baking soda reacting with the sugar, which will help create the brittle texture.
- Pour and spread the brittle: Immediately pour the foamy mixture in a circular pattern onto the prepared baking sheet to distribute the nuts evenly. Use two buttered forks to gently stretch and spread the brittle while it is still hot to make it thinner and crispier.
- Cool and break into pieces: Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool and hardened, break it into bite-sized pieces using your hands or the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Store: Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 weeks to maintain freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Be very cautious while working with hot sugar as it can cause severe burns.
- Ensure the candy thermometer bulb doesn’t touch the bottom of the pot for accurate temperature readings.
- Use salted peanuts for the best flavor; unsalted can be used but may require added salt.
- Spreading the brittle thinly with forks while hot ensures maximum crispiness and prevents thick, chewy spots.
- Store in an airtight container to keep the brittle fresh and crunchy for up to 6 weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peanut Brittle, Candy, Sweet Snack, Nut Brittle, Homemade Candy, Stovetop Candy
