Good Peanut Brittle
Sweet and crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramelized flavor and roasted peanuts, perfect for gifting or satisfying a crunchy treat craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 1/2 cup water to a boil, then add sugar and syrup. Stir until dissolved and boil until it spins a thread.
- Add peanuts and cook slowly over low heat until it turns golden brown.
- Remove from heat and add butter, vanilla, and soda.
- Stir quickly and pour onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Let it cool completely, then break into pieces and store in a well-covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best peanut brittle, ensure your peanuts are fresh and raw; stale ones can affect texture and flavor. If you don't have white syrup, corn syrup can be used as a substitute. Stir constantly to prevent burning, and use a candy thermometer to check for the 'hard crack' stage, which is around 300°F. This recipe can easily be doubled for larger batches.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a fantastic snack on its own or can be used as a topping for ice cream or desserts. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful treat. It also serves as a wonderful homemade gift during the holidays, alongside other treats like Esther'S Holiday Coconut Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Once the peanut brittle has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can cause it to become sticky. If you have leftovers, it should stay fresh for up to two weeks if kept in a well-sealed container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Peanut Brittle contains roughly 150 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but they will give the brittle a different flavor and texture. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as roasted peanuts are already cooked. Be careful not to overcook the mixture, as it might burn more quickly.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out sticky, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. To fix it, you can reheat it gently on the stove while stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage again, then pour it out to cool.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients to the brittle?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of chocolate chips after pouring it onto the cookie sheet for an extra touch of decadence.
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).