Ben'S Peanut Brittle
Golden and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor, perfect for peanut lovers and sweet snack enthusiasts craving a homemade treat with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water; cook to 240°F.
- Add peanuts and cook to 300°F, stirring occasionally.
- Add margarine, salt, and baking soda.
- Stir well and pour onto a greased marble slab or cookie sheet.
- Stretch or pull until thin.
- Cool and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your sugar and corn syrup mixture reaches exactly 240°F before adding peanuts; this helps achieve the perfect brittle texture. If you prefer, you can substitute raw peanuts with roasted ones for a different flavor. Be cautious when adding baking soda, as it causes the mixture to bubble up. A candy thermometer is essential for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or a sweet addition to dessert platters. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Fruit Kabobs for a fun, contrasting flavor experience. Serve it alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, or crush it to use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several weeks if stored properly. Avoid refrigeration, as this can cause the brittle to become sticky. If the pieces stick together, gently break them apart before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ben'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 187 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle is sticky, it may not have cooked long enough. Make sure you reach the correct temperatures during cooking. To salvage it, you can try reheating and re-stretching it on a greased surface, or store it in a cool, dry place to help it firm up.
Can I make peanut brittle without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, but the texture may vary slightly. Keep in mind that the flavor will also change, offering a different twist to the traditional peanut brittle. Adjust cooking times as necessary, as these alternatives may behave differently when heated.
How can I tell when my peanut brittle is done?
The best way to tell if your peanut brittle is done is to use a candy thermometer; it should reach 300°F. If you don't have one, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a hard, brittle thread. This ensures the right texture for your brittle.
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).