Miss Lillian'S Peanut Brittle
Sweet, crunchy peanut brittle with rich caramelized sugar and toasted peanuts, perfect for satisfying snack cravings or sharing at gatherings. A classic treat for candy lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Add the peanuts and cook until nuts become brittle and syrup turns amber.
- Add the butter and vanilla.
- Cook slowly to 300°F, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat.
- Add the baking soda; stir well, then pour onto a buttered baking sheet.
- Cool and pull out until very thin.
- Break into desired pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches 300°F for the perfect brittle texture. If you prefer, substitute raw peanuts with roasted ones for added flavor, but adjust cooking time as needed. Stir gently to prevent crystallization, and if you like a nutty flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but can also be served alongside sweet treats like the Deep Chocolate Cake for a contrast of flavors. It pairs beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate, making it a perfect addition to holiday gift baskets or as a crunchy topping for ice cream sundaes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy. For longer storage, you can freeze it, but be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. If it becomes sticky, simply break it into pieces and re-crisp in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Lillian'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 248 calories, with 1g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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 other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can use almonds, pecans, or cashews as alternatives, but adjust the cooking time as different nuts may cook at varying rates. Ensure they are raw and shelled to achieve the best results. Experimenting with different nuts can also add unique flavors to your brittle.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle is soft, it likely hasn't reached the correct temperature. You can try reheating it gently in a saucepan and bring it back to 300°F. Be cautious not to burn it, and stir continuously to ensure even cooking. Once it reaches the right temperature, pour it out again to cool.
How long does homemade peanut brittle last?
Homemade peanut brittle can last up to 2-3 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. If you notice it becoming sticky or soft, it may be time to toss it. Keeping it away from humidity will help maintain its crunchy texture for a longer period.
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).