Mama'S Peanut Brittle
Mama's Peanut Brittle delivers a crunchy, sweet, and nutty treat with rich caramel flavors, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar, Karo syrup, water, and peanuts until brown and peanuts pop.
- Remove from stove.
- Add butter, soda, and vanilla. Stir vigorously.
- Pour into three buttered pie pans. Cool and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your peanuts are raw and fresh. If you prefer a different nut, you can substitute with almonds or cashews, but they may alter the flavor slightly. Be careful when cooking the mixture; stirring too much can cause it to crystallize. If you want a sweeter version, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup. To enhance flavor, a pinch of sea salt can balance the sweetness beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack or dessert addition, perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea. It can also be packaged as a homemade gift for friends and family. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with Grandma Coconut Cream Pie for a sweet treat platter. It’s a classic that’s sure to please at gatherings and celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration, as moisture can make it chewy. If you need to reheat it, place the brittle on a baking sheet in a low oven for just a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 500 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of raw ones?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts, but be cautious as they can burn more easily during cooking. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider lightly toasting raw peanuts before adding them to the mixture.
What should I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out sticky, it could be due to not cooking it long enough. Ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature, typically around 300°F (hard crack stage). If too sticky, you can try re-cooking it gently until it reaches the right consistency.
How can I incorporate flavors into my peanut brittle?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or mix in chocolate chips after pouring the brittle into pans. Experimenting with flavor extracts, like almond or coconut, can also give your brittle a unique twist. Just be sure not to overpower the peanut flavor.
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).