Easy Peanut Brittle

If you love a crunchy, sweet treat that combines the richness of roasted peanuts with crispy caramelized sugar, this Easy Peanut Brittle recipe is exactly what you need. Discover a quick, foolproof way to make easy peanut brittle at home with simple ingredients and minimal effort. This perfect sweet treat is not only delightful to snack on but also wonderful to gift or share with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Minimal ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples without any fancy tools.
• Crispy texture: The perfect crunch every time without being sticky or tough.
• Customizable: Easily tweak this with different nuts or spices to suit your taste.
• Great for gifting: Makes an impressive homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this easy peanut brittle recipe plays an essential role, from the sweetness to the snap that makes it irresistible. Keep them simple and fresh for the best results.

• Sugar: Provides the sweet, caramel base for the brittle’s signature crunch.
• Light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and gives a smooth, glossy finish.
• Water: Activates the sugar and corn syrup to start the caramelization process.
• Salted peanuts: Adds a salty, nutty crunch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth texture in the candy.
• Baking soda: Creates tiny bubbles that lighten the brittle, making it crisp but not too hard.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.

Variations for Easy Peanut Brittle

Feel free to get creative with your easy peanut brittle by adapting it to your tastes or dietary needs. It’s super straightforward to switch up the nuts, flavors, or even sweeteners to make this your own signature treat.

• Use mixed nuts: Substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different nutty profile.
• Add spices: Try cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne for a unique flavor twist.
• Go nut-free: Replace peanuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for an allergy-friendly option.
• Use honey instead of corn syrup: For a natural sweetener alternative and a slightly different texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle on top once cooled for an indulgent finish.

How to Make Easy Peanut Brittle

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Surface

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure your brittle won’t stick and can cool evenly. Have a spatula ready to spread the mixture after cooking.

Step 2: Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Add Peanuts and Butter

Once the caramel reaches the right temperature, quickly stir in the salted peanuts and butter. Keep stirring to coat the nuts evenly and allow the mixture to return to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Remove From Heat and Add Baking Soda and Vanilla

Take the saucepan off the heat immediately and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam and lighten—this step is what gives brittle its signature texture.

Step 5: Spread and Cool

Pour the hot mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and immediately spread it as thin and even as possible using a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature until fully hard and crisp.

Step 6: Break Into Pieces

Once cooled, gently break the brittle into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container or share your Easy Peanut Brittle with friends!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Peanut Brittle

• Use a candy thermometer: Ensures the sugar reaches perfectly the hard crack stage for a crisp final texture.
• Work fast when spreading: The candy hardens quickly, so spread it evenly before it cools.
• Don’t stir while boiling: Stirring can cause sugar crystals to form and result in a grainy texture.
• Choose fresh peanuts: Fresh, unsalted peanuts will enhance the flavor even more, though salted works great for balance.
• Cool at room temperature: Avoid refrigerating brittle, which can cause moisture and stickiness.

How to Serve Easy Peanut Brittle

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little sea salt flakes on top right after spreading if you want a contrast; a light dusting of cinnamon or ground chili pepper can also spice it up for adventurous taste buds.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot coffee or tea for a satisfying contrast of hot and cold with sweet and crunchy.

Creative Ways to Present

Package pieces in small clear bags tied with ribbons for homemade gifts, or crush and sprinkle as topping for desserts like cakes, cupcakes, or puddings to add delightful crunch and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Easy Peanut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, to keep it fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.

Freezing

If you want to keep your peanut brittle longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Easy Peanut Brittle is best served at room temperature and doesn’t really require reheating, but if you’d like it slightly warm, brief bursts in a low oven will soften it gently without melting.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, or pecans all work wonderfully and give your brittle a unique twist while maintaining the crunchy texture.

Why did my peanut brittle turn out sticky?

Sticky brittle usually means it didn’t cook long enough to reach the hard crack stage or was exposed to humidity; always use a candy thermometer to check.

Is it necessary to add baking soda?

Yes, baking soda creates bubbles that lighten the brittle’s texture, making it crisp without being too hard or dense.

Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?

You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, but the texture might be slightly different since corn syrup helps prevent crystallization.

How should I store peanut brittle to keep it fresh?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place—moisture causes brittles to become sticky and lose their crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Peanut Brittle is a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade treat that’s crunchy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a lovely gift, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Grab those ingredients and start crafting your own batch today!

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