Description
A classic peanut brittle recipe that delivers a perfectly crunchy, sweet, and nutty confection. This easy homemade treat is great for gifting, holiday celebrations, or indulging in a nostalgic snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted or lightly salted)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Work Area: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly grease it. Pre-measure all ingredients.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then stop stirring. Attach a candy thermometer.
- Add Peanuts & Cook to Hard Crack Stage: Once the temperature reaches 250°F (121°C), add the peanuts and stir gently. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) and turns golden brown.
- Add Butter, Vanilla & Baking Soda: Remove from heat, then quickly stir in butter, vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up.
- Spread & Cool: Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Let cool completely (about 30-40 minutes).
- Break & Serve: Once hardened, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Spiced Peanut Brittle: Add cinnamon or cayenne for warmth.
- Chocolate-Drizzled Brittle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled brittle.
- Nut Mix: Use almonds, cashews, or pecans instead of peanuts.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt before the brittle sets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- cooling time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: candy, dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peanut brittle recipe, homemade candy, crunchy peanut brittle, classic peanut brittle, easy brittle recipe