Description
This Easy Peanut Brittle recipe creates a crunchy, sweet treat combining the rich flavor of roasted peanuts with crispy caramelized sugar. Quick and simple to make with minimal ingredients, this classic candy offers the perfect crunch every time. It’s ideal for snacking, sharing, or gifting during holidays and special occasions, with customizable options to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar reaches the hard crack stage for a crisp texture.
- Work quickly when spreading the hot brittle as it hardens rapidly.
- Do not stir the mixture while boiling to prevent crystallization and graininess.
- Use fresh peanuts for best flavor; salted peanuts balance the sweetness well.
- Cool brittle at room temperature; avoid refrigeration to prevent moisture and stickiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce (28g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: peanut brittle, easy peanut brittle, homemade peanut brittle, crunchy candy, caramel peanut brittle, holiday treat, nut brittle
