Ann'S Peanut Brittle
A sweet, crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and a satisfying crunch, perfect for sharing with friends or as a homemade gift for peanut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sugar, corn syrup, water, salt, and peanuts in a 2-quart microwaveproof bowl.
- Cook on High in microwave for 5 minutes, then stir.
- Cook on High for 13 to 15 minutes, until 300°F on candy thermometer. Stir in butter, soda, and vanilla just until light and bubbly.
- Pour onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Spread the mixture evenly.
- Cool completely and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfect peanut brittle, ensure your candy thermometer is accurate to avoid burning the sugar. If you prefer, you can substitute raw peanuts with roasted ones for a deeper flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle heat. Keep a close eye on the mixture as it cooks, as microwave times can vary. If you're looking for more sweet treats, consider trying Frosted Caramel Squares.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be used as a topping for ice cream or in desserts. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, package it in clear bags tied with ribbons as gifts. This treat is also a great addition to holiday dessert platters alongside Martha Jo'S Peach Cobbler.
Storage & Reheating
Store your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as humidity can make it chewy. If you have leftovers, it can be kept for up to two weeks. To reheat and restore crispness, place it in a low oven for a few minutes but be careful not to melt it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 297 calories, with 2g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, while peanuts are traditional, you can experiment with almonds or cashews for a unique flavor profile. Just ensure they are raw and unsalted if you want to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle doesn’t set properly, it may not have reached the right temperature. You can reheat it gently, stirring until it reaches 300°F again. Then, pour it onto the cookie sheet to cool. Be sure to monitor the cooking time closely next time.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make vegan peanut brittle, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this a simple substitution for a delicious treat.
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).