Lucy Johnson'S Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and toasted peanuts, perfect for sharing or gifting to peanut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 1/2 cup of water in a heavy skillet and bring to a boil.
- Add sugar and corn syrup, stirring until dissolved.
- Boil until the mixture spins a thread when tested.
- Add peanuts and cook slowly over low heat until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla, butter, and soda.
- Stir quickly and pour onto two buttered cookie sheets while foaming.
- Let cool completely, then break apart and store in a dry place.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth texture, make sure your sugar and corn syrup are fully dissolved before boiling. If you prefer, you can substitute honey for light corn syrup for a unique flavor twist. Be cautious while cooking; the mixture can bubble up significantly when adding the baking soda. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds instead of peanuts, although the flavor will differ.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes an excellent snack on its own, but it can also be crumbled over ice cream for added crunch. Pair it with a warm beverage or serve alongside a selection of cookies, like Peanut Butter And Jelly Cookies(Just Like Your Favorite Sandwich), for a delightful dessert platter. It also makes a great gift when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp. If you live in a humid area, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigeration, as this can cause the brittle to become chewy instead of crunchy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lucy Johnson'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 122 calories, with 2g protein, 21g 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, using roasted peanuts will add a deeper flavor to the brittle. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the mixture to prevent burning. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired golden color.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle is too soft, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. To salvage it, you can reheat the mixture in a saucepan, stirring constantly until it reaches the hard crack stage (about 300°F or 149°C). Pour it out again to cool and harden.
How can I add flavor variations to this recipe?
You can infuse your peanut brittle with flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla will provide a different twist. Experimenting with these flavors can elevate your peanut brittle and make it uniquely yours.
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).