Mim'S Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with rich caramel flavors and a satisfying crunch, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a savory gift for peanut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanuts, sugar, and syrup together in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook to hard crack (300°F). Remove from heat and stir in baking soda.
- Stir very quickly as the mixture will rise rapidly.
- Pour onto a baking sheet to cool.
- Break into pieces once the brittle is hard.
Tips & Substitutions
When making Mim'S Peanut Brittle, ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, as the cooking process is quick. For a nuttier flavor, consider using roasted peanuts instead of raw. If you prefer a lighter color, use light corn syrup. Be cautious when handling the hot mixture, as it can stick and burn easily. A silicone baking mat can help prevent sticking when pouring out the brittle.
Serving Suggestions
Mim'S Peanut Brittle makes a delightful snack, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to gift baskets. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat. It also complements savory dishes like Barbecued Spicy Chicken, providing a nice contrast in flavor. Enjoy it as a crunchy topping over ice cream or alongside a slice of California Fresh Strawberry Pie for a delicious dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as humidity can make it sticky. If you notice any softening, re-crisp it by placing it in a low oven for a few minutes. This treat can last for several weeks when stored properly, making it great for sharing or gifting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mim'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 776 calories, with 3g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1437mg per serving (62% 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 use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute raw peanuts with other nuts like almonds, cashews, or pecans. Keep in mind that different nuts may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly. For example, pecans are often used in Pecan Brittle(An Old Favorite) and can provide a unique twist to this classic recipe.
What should I do if my peanut brittle turns out too sticky?
If your peanut brittle is too sticky, it may not have reached the hard crack stage during cooking. To fix this, return the mixture to the saucepan and reheat it while stirring until it reaches the correct temperature of 300°F. Be sure to monitor it closely to avoid burning.
How can I make peanut brittle more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your peanut brittle, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract just before pouring it onto the baking sheet. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist, adding layers of flavor to this traditional candy.
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).