Grandma'S Peanut Brittle
Grandma's Peanut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich peanut flavor and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for sharing or gifting, its caramelized texture and nutty crunch make it a nostalgic favorite for those who enjoy homemade confections with a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring sugar, Karo syrup, water, and butter to a boil.
- Add peanuts and boil until peanuts turn brown, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla; mix well.
- Fold in baking soda and pour onto three buttered cookie sheets.
- Let it cool and pull apart as it hardens.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure even cooking, stir the mixture frequently while boiling. If you prefer a different nut, almonds or cashews can be great substitutes for peanuts. Always use a candy thermometer to check the temperature; the mixture should reach the hard crack stage, around 300°F. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt at the end to enhance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served alongside coffee or tea for a cozy treat. You can also chop it up and use it to top desserts like ice cream or brownies, or even incorporate it into recipes like Christmas Amber Rum Cake for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If it becomes sticky, you can re-crisp it in the oven at a low temperature, around 200°F, for a few minutes. Make sure to separate pieces to prevent them from sticking together.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 994 calories, with 1g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1273mg per serving (55% 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 be cautious as they will brown faster. If using roasted peanuts, reduce the boiling time slightly to avoid overcooking them.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your brittle is too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature. To fix this, you can reheat the mixture slowly, stirring until it reaches 300°F. Be careful not to burn it.
Is there a way to make the brittle more flavorful?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist. Just incorporate these ingredients after removing the mixture from the heat.
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).