What Makes peanut brittle recipe So Special
There’s something timeless about a homemade peanut brittle recipe. It’s a treat that brings back memories of holidays, family gatherings, and cozy kitchen moments. This crunchy, sweet, and salty delight is perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging in after a long day.
I remember my grandmother making peanut brittle every Christmas. The smell of caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts filled the house, creating a warm, comforting atmosphere. If you’ve ever wondered what ingredients are needed for a peanut brittle recipe or how to make it at home, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this classic treat!
Looking for more holiday-inspired recipes? Check out my collection of holiday treats for more festive ideas.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups raw peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for peanut brittle recipe
This peanut brittle recipe is surprisingly quick to make. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Want more easy candy recipes? Explore my easy candy recipes collection for more quick treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Bring mixture to a boil and insert a candy thermometer. Cook until temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), stirring occasionally.
- Stir in peanuts and salt. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until mixture turns golden brown.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in butter, vanilla, and baking soda (mixture will foam).
- Immediately pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread thinly with a spatula.
- Let cool completely, then break into pieces.
- Store in an airtight container.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Here are a few ways to make your peanut brittle recipe even more special:
- Flavor Swap: Try using almonds or cashews instead of peanuts for a unique twist.
- Diet Tweak: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-calorie version.
- Prep Fix: Keep a greased spatula handy to spread the brittle quickly.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
For more nut-based desserts, check out my nut-based desserts collection.
Healthier Alternatives for peanut brittle recipe
Can you make peanut brittle healthier? Absolutely! Here are some simple swaps:
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Replace corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Opt for unsalted peanuts to reduce sodium content.
Learn more about the benefits of peanuts here.
How to Serve peanut brittle recipe
Peanut brittle is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Looking for more sweet snacks? Try my sweet snacks collection for inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for a peanut brittle recipe?
You’ll need sugar, corn syrup, water, peanuts, salt, butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Check out the full recipe above for details.
How do you make peanut brittle at home?
Follow the step-by-step instructions in this guide to make peanut brittle at home. It’s easier than you think!
What is the best way to store peanut brittle?
Store peanut brittle in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. For more tips, see the Pro Tips section.
Can you make peanut brittle without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is recommended, you can use the cold water test to check for the hard crack stage.
How long does peanut brittle take to cool?
Peanut brittle typically takes about 30 minutes to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
What are common mistakes when making peanut brittle?
Common mistakes include not stirring constantly, overcooking, or not spreading the brittle thinly enough. Follow the tips above to avoid these pitfalls.
Can you substitute peanuts in a peanut brittle recipe?
Yes, you can use almonds, cashews, or other nuts. Check out the Pro Tips section for more ideas.
Conclusion
Making a peanut brittle recipe at home is a rewarding experience that brings joy to both the maker and those who get to enjoy it. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a gift, or just because, this classic treat is sure to delight.
Don’t forget to explore my other traditional candy recipes for more sweet inspiration. Now, grab your ingredients and start creating your own peanut brittle masterpiece.
Peanut Brittle Recipe
Description
A classic crunchy homemade peanut brittle candy made with sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, and butter — perfect for gifting or snacking.
Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
1/4 cup water
1 cup roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt over medium heat.
Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil.
Add peanuts and continue cooking until mixture reaches hard crack stage or becomes golden.
Remove from heat and quickly stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla.
Pour onto prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Notes
Use a candy thermometer to reach hard crack stage for best texture.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 weeks.
