Dixie Peanut Brittle
Sweet, crunchy peanut brittle with caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, offering a nostalgic treat perfect for sharing or gifting, with rich, buttery flavors and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
- Heat to a rolling boil.
- Add the peanuts to the boiling mixture.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Cook until the syrup reaches the thread stage (about 293°F).
- Remove from heat and add butter, then quickly stir in the baking soda, beating rapidly.
- Pour the mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Spread to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Allow to cool completely, then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure perfect peanut brittle, use a candy thermometer to monitor the syrup’s temperature closely. If you don't have raw shelled peanuts, roasted peanuts can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid burning them. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness. Always work quickly when adding the butter and baking soda as the mixture hardens fast.
Serving Suggestions
Dixie Peanut Brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a sweet topping over ice cream. For a festive touch, package pieces in decorative bags to give as gifts during the holidays. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If the brittle becomes too hard, you can gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dixie Peanut Brittle contains roughly 200 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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 instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or pecans. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut you choose. Additionally, ensure the nuts are raw and shelled for best results in this recipe.
What should I do if my syrup doesn’t reach the thread stage?
If your syrup hasn’t reached the thread stage (293°F), continue cooking it on medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too dark or starts to smell burnt, it's best to discard it and start over, as burnt syrup will affect the flavor of your brittle.
How can I tell when the peanut brittle is properly cooled?
The peanut brittle is properly cooled when it feels firm and crisp to the touch. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before breaking it into pieces. If it’s still sticky or soft, give it a bit more time to set.
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).