Easy Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or sharing at festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease two cookie sheets.
- Using a 3-quart heavy-gauge saucepan, cook sugar, syrup, water, and salt to 234°F or the soft ball stage.
- Add raw peanuts and margarine and stir constantly; cook to 300°F.
- Add baking soda; stir in very well and take off heat about a half-minute into stirring.
- Continue to stir until peanut brittle reaches a foam-like caramel color.
- The mixture will be a foam-like caramel color.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your peanut brittle turns out perfectly, use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings. If you prefer, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Make sure to work quickly while stirring, as the mixture can harden rapidly. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra depth, which pairs beautifully with Fruited Iced Tea.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes an excellent snack on its own or can be crumbled over ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a festive touch, package it in decorative bags as homemade gifts. Pair it with a Spicy Tomato Cocktail(Crock-Pot Recipe) for a unique appetizer spread. This sweet treat is also a great addition to holiday dessert tables or festive gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can affect the texture. If it becomes too hard, you can place it in a warm oven briefly to soften it before enjoying again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Peanut Brittle contains roughly 1021 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 for a different flavor, but be cautious as they may cook faster. Reduce the cooking time slightly after adding them to the mixture to avoid burning. Additionally, consider the saltiness of roasted peanuts and adjust the pinch of salt accordingly.
What should I do if my candy mixture crystallizes?
If your mixture crystallizes during cooking, try adding a few drops of lemon juice to help prevent further crystallization. Ensure that your saucepan is clean and avoid stirring too much once the sugar has dissolved. If crystallization occurs, you may need to start over for the best texture.
How can I tell when the peanut brittle is ready?
The peanut brittle is ready when it reaches 300°F, known as the hard crack stage. This temperature ensures a crunchy texture. Additionally, the mixture should turn a foam-like caramel color. Always use a candy thermometer for the most accurate results.
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).