Crispy Peanut Brittle
Crispy peanut brittle offers a sweet, crunchy treat with roasted peanut flavor and caramelized sugar, perfect for sharing or gifting to those who love a nostalgic candy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the white syrup, sugar, water, salt, and peanuts in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage (295° to 300°F), or until the peanuts pop open and the syrup begins to brown.
- Remove from heat and quickly add the baking soda.
- Stir vigorously to combine, then pour the hot mixture into a buttered pan.
- Allow the candy to cool, then break into pieces as it hardens.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect crispy texture, ensure that you cook the mixture to the hard crack stage accurately. If you don't have white syrup, corn syrup can be a suitable substitute. Also, for a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract after removing from heat for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy peanut brittle is perfect as a sweet snack on its own or as a delightful addition to dessert platters. It pairs beautifully with Raspberries And Cream or can be crumbled over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping. Consider serving it alongside a hot beverage for a cozy treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch. Avoid humidity, as it can make the candy sticky. For longer storage, you can freeze it, but be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Peanut Brittle contains roughly 406 calories, with 9g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but they may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the brittle. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid burning the peanuts.
What should I do if my mixture crystallizes?
If your mixture crystallizes, try adding a little water and reheating gently while stirring. To prevent crystallization in the first place, avoid stirring the mixture once it begins to boil.
How can I tell when the mixture has reached the hard crack stage?
To determine if your mixture has reached the hard crack stage, use a candy thermometer. You can also test it by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form hard, brittle threads.
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).