Melissa'S Peanut Brittle(Heritage Recipe)
A rich, crunchy peanut brittle with sweet caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a delightful homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, karo, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook until the temperature reaches 275 degrees on a candy thermometer.
- Add peanuts and margarine; cook until lightly brown.
- Quickly add soda and salt, then beat well to mix.
- Pour into a well-buttered pan or large cookie sheet and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your candy thermometer is calibrated correctly to avoid overcooking. If raw Spanish peanuts are unavailable, roasted unsalted peanuts can be used, but reduce cooking time to prevent burning. Be sure to work quickly when adding the soda and salt, as the mixture will harden rapidly. Consider preparing a batch of Shelby'S Orange Salad to serve alongside for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle can be enjoyed as a sweet snack on its own, or served as a delightful topping over vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, package pieces in cellophane bags as homemade gifts during the holidays, alongside other treats like Fondant-Dipped Strawberries.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crunchy. Avoid humidity, as it can cause the brittle to become sticky. If you need to reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until warm, but be cautious not to melt it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melissa'S Peanut Brittle(Heritage Recipe) contains roughly 1275 calories, with 9g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1534mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
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 make this peanut brittle vegan?
Yes, you can make this peanut brittle vegan by substituting the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugar is processed with bone char. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits into vegan recipes.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too hard?
If your peanut brittle turns out too hard, you can try breaking it into smaller pieces and microwaving it for short bursts (about 10 seconds) to soften it slightly. However, be careful not to melt it. For future batches, ensure you monitor the cooking temperature closely to achieve the desired texture.
How long does homemade peanut brittle last?
Homemade peanut brittle can last for about 2 to 3 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain its crunchy texture, keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture. If you notice any signs of stickiness, it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later.
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).