There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about peanut brittle. It’s that golden, glossy sheet of crunchy sweetness, generously packed with roasted peanuts, that takes you right back to cozy holiday gatherings or grandma’s candy jar. The kind of treat that makes you say, “Just one more piece,” until you realize you’ve eaten half the batch. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make at home no candy thermometer panic required! Whether you’re gifting it in cute jars or just hoarding it for yourself (no judgment), peanut brittle is a total winner.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Brittle

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Peanut brittle is perfect for everything from holiday gifts to late-night munchies. Dress it up in a tin or break off a chunk with your afternoon tea there’s never a wrong time.

Budget-Friendly: Just a few pantry staples are all you need to whip up a batch. It’s the kind of sweet indulgence that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: You can have a batch cooling on your counter in under 30 minutes. No fancy tools or tricky techniques required.

Customizable: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a drizzle of chocolate, or swap in different nuts this recipe is a blank canvas for your sweet creativity.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Peanut Brittle

Here’s the magic of this sweet treat it’s made with a handful of basics, yet delivers a satisfying crunch and rich caramelized flavor that feels straight out of a candy shop.

Granulated Sugar: The base of the brittle. When melted, it transforms into a rich, golden caramel that gives the candy its signature snap.

Corn Syrup: Keeps the sugar from crystallizing and gives the brittle that glossy finish and chewy-crunchy texture.

Butter: Adds richness and depth to the flavor. It also helps make the brittle smooth and slightly creamy.

Roasted Peanuts: The crunchy, salty surprise in every bite. Roasted peanuts are perfect here, but you can get creative with other nuts too.

Baking Soda: The secret ingredient that gives brittle its airy, porous texture. When added to the hot mixture, it reacts to create tiny bubbles.

Vanilla Extract: A little splash of vanilla brings warmth and rounds out the caramel flavor beautifully.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and setting it aside. Also, have all your ingredients measured and ready to go—things move fast once the sugar starts bubbling!

Combine Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Make sure your lined baking sheet is within reach, as you’ll need to pour the hot brittle quickly once it’s ready.

Assemble the Dish

Once the mixture starts to boil, add the peanuts and stir constantly. Let it cook until it reaches a deep golden color, then remove from heat and immediately stir in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla.

Cook to Perfection

Watch the mixture puff up and lighten in color this is the magic moment! Quickly pour it onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it out thin.

Finishing Touches

Let the brittle cool completely on the counter. Don’t rush this part cooling allows it to firm up into that perfect, snappy texture.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, break into pieces and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crisp.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Peanut Brittle

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve it as an after-dinner treat with coffee or tea.
• Wrap it in cellophane bags for sweet homemade gifts.
• Crush it over vanilla ice cream for a delightful crunch.
• Add it to a dessert board alongside cookies and chocolates.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Work quickly once the brittle is ready timing is key.
• Don’t stir the sugar syrup too much once it starts boiling; let it do its thing.
• Use a candy thermometer if you want precision, but don’t stress if you don’t have one color and smell are great indicators.
• Store in a cool, dry place to keep it crisp.
• Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet finish.

FAQs

1 What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute with honey or golden syrup, though it may slightly change the texture.

2 Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! Cashews, almonds, or mixed nuts all work beautifully in this recipe.

3 Why did my brittle turn out chewy instead of crunchy?
It may not have cooked long enough. Be sure to let the sugar reach that rich golden stage before removing from heat.

4 Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, just swap the butter for a vegan alternative and double-check your sugar and corn syrup are vegan-friendly.

5 How do I clean the pot after making brittle?
Soak it in hot water right away. The sugar will dissolve and make cleanup super easy.

6 Do I need a candy thermometer for this?
Nope! While it can help, this recipe works just fine by watching for color and texture changes.

7 How long does peanut brittle last?
Stored in an airtight container, it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

8 Can I add spices to the brittle?
Totally! A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper adds a fun twist.

9 Why do I need baking soda?
It reacts with the sugar mixture to create tiny air bubbles, making the brittle light and crunchy.

10 Can I double the recipe?
You can, but be sure to use a large enough pot and work quickly when spreading the brittle.

Conclusion

There you have it classic peanut brittle with a homemade twist that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles. So grab your ingredients, get that sugar bubbling, and prepare for a sweet, satisfying crunch you’ll want to share with everyone (or keep all to yourself we won’t tell!).

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