Mama'S Peanut Brittle(Never Fail)
Mama's Peanut Brittle is a classic, crunchy treat with rich caramel flavors and roasted peanuts, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, white syrup, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Add peanuts to the mixture and continue cooking until it reaches the hard boil stage.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and baking soda; mix well.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool and harden before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your peanut brittle turns out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you don't have raw peanuts, roasted unsalted peanuts can be substituted, but reduce the cooking time after adding them. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. Keep a bowl of ice water nearby to test the sugar's doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your peanut brittle as a delightful snack or dessert, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet treat during movie nights. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate Peanut Butter Crackers for a decadent combination. You can also package pieces in clear bags tied with a ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it sticky. To enjoy it later, simply break into pieces and serve as is—no reheating is necessary, as it’s best enjoyed crunchy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Peanut Brittle(Never Fail) contains roughly 45 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g 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
What is the soft ball stage in candy making?
The soft ball stage occurs when the sugar mixture reaches a temperature of 234-240°F (112-115°C). At this point, when a small amount of the mixture is dropped into cold water, it will form a soft, pliable ball. Using a candy thermometer is the best way to achieve this precisely.
Can I add flavors or nuts other than peanuts?
Yes, you can customize this peanut brittle by adding flavors like vanilla or almond extract after removing it from heat. Other nuts such as almonds or cashews can also be added for variety—just make sure they are raw if you want them to toast along with the sugar.
What should I do if my brittle becomes too hard?
If your peanut brittle turns out too hard, it may have been cooked too long. To soften it slightly, you can try placing it in an airtight container with a slice of bread for a day. The moisture from the bread helps to soften the brittle without compromising its 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).