There’s something so nostalgic about Peanut Brittle—the perfect balance of crunchy, buttery, and nutty goodness. This classic treat has been around for generations, and trust me, once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought!
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With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this golden, glossy, sweet-and-salty perfection right in your own kitchen. And the best part? It makes a fantastic homemade gift (if you don’t eat it all first!).
Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Peanut Brittle
Crunchy and Addictive: That irresistible snap is what makes peanut brittle so satisfying!
Made with Simple Ingredients: No fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients—just sugar, peanuts, and a few basics.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up in a cute bag, and you have an easy, thoughtful homemade present.
Quick to Make: You’ll have a batch ready in under 30 minutes!
Customizable: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a drizzle of chocolate, or swap in different nuts for a unique twist.
Ingredients in Peanut Brittle
Granulated Sugar: The base of the brittle, caramelizing into a golden, crunchy candy.
Light Corn Syrup: Keeps the sugar from crystallizing and helps create that signature snap.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the brittle.
Roasted Peanuts: The star ingredient—salty, crunchy, and packed with flavor.
Baking Soda: The secret to a light, airy texture in the brittle.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of warmth to balance the sweetness.
Salt: Enhances the flavor and brings out the nuttiness of the peanuts.
Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Heat the Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Cook to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil and cook without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
Add the Butter and Peanuts: Stir in the butter and peanuts, cooking for another minute until fully coated.
Stir in the Baking Soda and Vanilla: Quickly mix in the baking soda and vanilla—the mixture will bubble up and turn light in texture.
Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out with a spatula.
Let It Cool: Allow the brittle to harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Break Into Pieces: Once fully set, break it into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
How to Serve Peanut Brittle
On Its Own: The perfect sweet-and-salty snack.
Crushed Over Ice Cream: Sprinkle some over vanilla ice cream for extra crunch.
With Coffee or Tea: A delightful treat alongside your afternoon pick-me-up.
As a Topping: Use crumbled peanut brittle on cakes, cupcakes, or yogurt.
Homemade Gifts: Wrap it in cellophane bags and gift it for the holidays!
Additional Tips
Use a Candy Thermometer: This ensures your brittle reaches the perfect texture.
Work Quickly: Once you add the baking soda, the mixture sets fast—be ready to pour!
Avoid Humid Days: Brittle can turn sticky if there’s too much moisture in the air.
Swap the Peanuts: Try almonds, cashews, or pecans for a fun variation.
Drizzle with Chocolate: Melted dark or white chocolate makes a delicious topping.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make peanut brittle without corn syrup?
A1: Yes! Substitute honey or golden syrup, but the texture may be slightly different.
Q2: Why is my brittle too soft?
A2: It likely didn’t reach the hard crack stage (300°F). Be sure to use a thermometer!
Q3: How do I store peanut brittle?
A3: Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Q4: Can I freeze peanut brittle?
A4: No, freezing can introduce moisture and make it sticky. Room temperature is best.
Q5: My brittle is grainy—what went wrong?
A5: Stirring too much or not fully dissolving the sugar can cause crystallization.
Q6: Can I use raw peanuts instead of roasted?
A6: Yes, but toast them lightly first for better flavor.
Q7: What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
A7: Drop a little syrup into cold water—if it hardens immediately, it’s ready.
Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Yes, but work quickly since the sugar sets fast!
Q9: Is peanut brittle gluten-free?
A9: Yes! Just check that your ingredients are free from cross-contamination.
Q10: Can I add spices for extra flavor?
A10: Absolutely! Try cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy-sweet twist.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Peanut Brittle is a game-changer—crunchy, sweet, and totally addictive. Whether you’re making it for yourself or gifting it to friends, it’s a classic treat that never disappoints. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and whip up a batch—you won’t regret it!
Print
Easy Homemade Peanut Brittle
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 50 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This old-fashioned Peanut Brittle is a classic homemade candy made with roasted peanuts, butter, and vanilla. It’s crunchy, sweet, and salty with a rich caramelized flavor. Perfect for gifting or holiday treats!
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups salted roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Measure ingredients: Have peanuts, butter, baking soda, and vanilla ready.
- Cook sugar mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Check temperature: Attach a candy thermometer, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 250°F (121°C).
- Add peanuts: Stir in peanuts, then continue stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C).
- Finish the brittle: Remove from heat and immediately stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla. The mixture will foam and change texture.
- Spread & cool: Quickly pour onto the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spoon or knife. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before breaking into pieces.
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Temperature is key! Use a candy thermometer for best results.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Gift Idea: Package in decorative tins or bags for a great homemade gift!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 88 kcal
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 2mg