Betty'S Peanut Brittle
Betty's Peanut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich peanut flavor and caramel notes. Perfect for sharing or gifting, it suits those who love homemade confections with a satisfying crunch and a hint of salt to balance the sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put sugar, Karo syrup, water, and salt in a pan and cook over low heat until the sugar melts.
- Add raw peanuts to the mixture.
- Do not stir; watch the mixture as it cooks.
- Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature and color, remove from heat and pour onto a greased pan.
- Allow to cool and harden before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfect peanut brittle, ensure you cook the sugar mixture slowly to avoid burning. If you prefer, substitute the raw peanuts with roasted ones for a deeper flavor or use cashews for a unique twist. Be patient while cooking; do not stir, as it helps to create the desired texture. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your peanut brittle as a delightful snack or dessert. It pairs beautifully with Leigh'S Snickerdoodles for a sweet treat platter. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or incorporate it into a gift basket alongside other homemade goodies. This candy is perfect for sharing during festive occasions or simply enjoying with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crunchy. Avoid humidity, as it can cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to reheat, place it in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes, but be cautious not to overheat it, which might alter its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 444 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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, you can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews. Keep in mind that different nuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time due to their varying oil content and moisture levels.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too hard?
If your peanut brittle turns out too hard, you can break it into smaller pieces and serve it with a side of soft desserts, like a scoop of ice cream. This contrast in textures can enhance the overall experience and make it more enjoyable.
How can I tell when the sugar mixture is ready?
The sugar mixture is ready when it reaches a rich amber color and a temperature of about 300°F (hard crack stage). Using a candy thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy, as color changes can be misleading. Monitor it closely to prevent burning.
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).