Best Peanut Brittle
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting. Ideal for those who love nutty, buttery confections with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the Karo syrup, sugar, oleo, vanilla, salt, and baking soda in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the desired caramel color and temperature.
- Pour the hot mixture onto a greased cookie sheet and spread evenly.
- Let it cool and harden completely.
- Break into pieces and store in a covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh raw peanuts or pecans, as older nuts can affect flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute with sunflower seeds. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning, and watch the temperature closely to achieve the perfect caramel color. If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick!
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or served alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. It can also be crumbled over vanilla ice cream for a sweet and crunchy dessert. For a festive touch, package it in decorative bags as gifts during holidays. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Hominy for a unique flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Once the peanut brittle has cooled and hardened, break it into pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing in the refrigerator, as moisture can affect the texture. Properly stored, it can last for several weeks. If you notice any stickiness, simply place it in the fridge for a short time to firm it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Peanut Brittle contains roughly 147 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 the brittle?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for raw peanuts or pecans, you can experiment with almonds, walnuts, or even mixed nuts. Just ensure that the nuts are roasted for added flavor, and adjust the cooking time accordingly if you're using larger nuts.
How can I tell when the brittle is ready?
The brittle is ready when it reaches a golden caramel color and a temperature of around 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should harden immediately and break when cooled.
What should I do if my brittle sticks together?
If your peanut brittle sticks together, it may have absorbed moisture during storage. To fix this, you can place the pieces on a baking sheet and warm them in a low oven for a few minutes to help separate them. Allow them to cool completely before storing again in an airtight container.
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).