11 Minute Peanut Brittle
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor, perfect for gift-giving or snacking. A classic treat that appeals to peanut lovers and candy enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup light Karo syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1 teaspoon soda, dash of salt, and 12 ounces Spanish peanuts into a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a golden caramel color and reaches the hard crack stage (about 300°F).
- Remove from heat and quickly pour the mixture onto a lightly greased jelly roll pan.
- Spread the mixture evenly with a spatula and let it cool completely until hard.
- Break the cooled peanut brittle into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. If you don't have Spanish peanuts, you can substitute with roasted unsalted peanuts. Be cautious while cooking; sugar can burn quickly. If you prefer a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds instead. For an added twist, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a fantastic snack on its own or can be served as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with Marshmallow Cookie Pops for a delightful dessert platter. Consider crumbling it over ice cream or incorporating it into a trail mix for added crunch. Perfect for gifting during the holidays or at special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crunchy. Avoid refrigeration as it may cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to reheat it, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes, but be careful not to melt it. Properly stored, it can last for several weeks.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 11 Minute Peanut Brittle contains roughly 311 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Spanish peanuts with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture slightly, but they will still create a delicious brittle. Roasted nuts will provide the best results.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is sticky?
Sticky peanut brittle can happen if it's not cooked long enough or if it's exposed to humidity. If you encounter this, try placing it in a cool, dry place to allow it to harden further. If it remains sticky, you can reheat it gently and add a little more sugar to help it firm up.
How can I tell when the sugar mixture is at the hard crack stage?
The hard crack stage is reached when the mixture reaches about 300°F. You can use a candy thermometer for accuracy. Alternatively, you can test by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should harden immediately and break when you try to bend it. Timing can vary, so stay vigilant while cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).