Harold'S Famous Peanut Brittle
Harold's Famous Peanut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich peanut flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting to friends and family who love classic candies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter one large baking sheet and set aside.
- In an iron pan, combine sugar, Karo syrup, and water.
- Cook over medium-high heat to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Add raw peanuts and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches hard-crack stage.
- Add butter and mix until well combined.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the mixture and stir constantly.
- Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Hold the sheet at an angle to allow the candy to spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh raw peanuts and avoid overcooking the sugar mixture to prevent bitterness. If you prefer a nut-free version, try substituting with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Be sure to work quickly when pouring the mixture onto the baking sheet, as it hardens rapidly. For an added flavor twist, consider mixing in a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a topping for ice cream. For an elegant dessert, serve alongside slices of No Crust Custard Pie or Caramel Heath Bar Cheese Cake. Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a nostalgic treat that satisfies both young and old alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a vacuum-sealed bag to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating as it can cause the brittle to become sticky. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature to soften slightly before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harold'S Famous Peanut Brittle contains roughly 148 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
What is the hard-crack stage in candy making?
The hard-crack stage occurs when the sugar syrup reaches a temperature of 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. At this stage, a drop of the syrup in cold water will form hard, brittle threads. It's essential to use a thermometer for accuracy, as this determines the final texture of your peanut brittle.
Can I add flavors or extra ingredients to the peanut brittle?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon during the cooking process. Other ingredients like toasted coconut or chocolate chips can also be mixed in for a unique twist. Just be cautious not to alter the proportions too much, as the candy's structure relies on the balance of ingredients.
Why did my peanut brittle turn out sticky?
Sticky peanut brittle usually results from undercooking the sugar mixture or exposure to humidity. Ensure you reach the hard-crack stage when cooking the syrup. Additionally, store the brittle in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture absorption. If it becomes sticky, you can try re-crystallizing it by heating it gently and spreading it out again.
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).