Crunchy Peanut Brittle
Crunchy peanut brittle offers a sweet, caramelized flavor with crunchy peanuts, perfect for sharing or gifting. Its rich, nutty taste appeals to candy lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a large electric skillet with heavy-duty foil.
- Combine sugar, water, and syrup in the skillet.
- Set the temperature gauge at 375°F. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the syrup turns golden.
- Stir in peanuts and salt.
- Continue stirring until the mixture becomes brown. Unplug the skillet, then vigorously stir in margarine and baking soda.
- Remove the foil with the candy still on it.
- Let the brittle cool completely.
- Break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, ensure your peanuts are raw and lightly toasted before adding them to the mixture. If you don't have light corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor may vary slightly. Stir continuously once the syrup turns golden to prevent burning, and use a candy thermometer for precision if available.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it can also be served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, package pieces in clear bags tied with ribbons as gifts. It pairs beautifully with Birthday Punch for a sweet treat at celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it sticky. If it becomes soft, place it in a low oven for a few minutes to re-crisp before enjoying again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Peanut Brittle contains roughly 67 calories, with 0g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 be cautious as they may burn faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly and consider adding them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their crunch.
What should I do if the brittle doesn't harden?
If your brittle doesn't harden, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Try cooking it a bit longer until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F). If all else fails, you can reheat and try again.
Can I add flavors like vanilla or chocolate?
Absolutely! You can stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract after adding the margarine and baking soda. For a chocolate variation, dip the cooled brittle in melted chocolate for a delicious twist.
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).