Jean Nickel'S Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich caramelized sugar and toasted peanuts. Its addictive texture and simple ingredients make it perfect for sharing during holidays or as a homemade gift. A classic confection that appeals to both kids and adults alike, delivering nostalgic flavors with every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 1/2 cup water in a large, heavy pan and bring to a boil.
- Add sugar and corn syrup; stir until dissolved and then boil until it spins a thread.
- Add peanuts and cook slowly over low heat until the mixture turns a golden brown.
- Turn off the heat and leave the pan on the burner. Add butter and vanilla, and stir well.
- Add baking soda. The mixture will foam up and change color and texture.
- Stir thoroughly and then quickly spread in a large, buttered jelly roll pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature for spinning a thread, which is around 230°F. If you want to try a variation, feel free to substitute the raw peanuts with almonds for a different flavor profile. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors. This peanut brittle pairs beautifully with Classic Rum Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peanut brittle as a sweet snack or dessert alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It also makes a great gift when packaged in decorative boxes. For a creative twist, crumble the brittle over ice cream or mix it into your favorite homemade chocolate bark for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled completely, store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to two weeks if stored properly. Avoid refrigerating as this can make the brittle sticky. If it starts to soften, you can refresh it in a preheated oven for a few minutes to regain its crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean Nickel'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 218 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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
Why did my peanut brittle turn out chewy instead of crunchy?
Chewy peanut brittle may result from not cooking the sugar mixture to the correct temperature. Ensure it reaches at least 300°F (hard crack stage) for the right texture. Using a candy thermometer can help achieve the perfect consistency. Additionally, if moisture enters the storage container, it can cause the brittle to become chewy.
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts; however, keep in mind that they may add a deeper flavor and darker color to the brittle. If you choose roasted peanuts, reduce the cooking time after adding them to avoid overcooking. A touch of sea salt can complement the roasted flavor nicely.
How can I make my peanut brittle more colorful?
To add some color to your peanut brittle, consider drizzling it with melted chocolate after it has cooled. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the brittle.
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).