Mr. Hendershot'S Peanut Brittle Candy
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and a hint of vanilla, perfect for satisfying nostalgic cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and Karo syrup and stir well.
- Cook on high heat until the mixture turns a light straw color.
- Add vanilla and peanuts to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Add butter and soda, stir well, and pour onto a buttered platter immediately.
- Let cool and then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth texture, make sure to stir the sugar and Karo syrup mixture continuously and watch it closely as it cooks to prevent burning. You can substitute light corn syrup for clear Karo syrup if needed. For added flavor, consider using roasted peanuts instead of raw, and feel free to add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it can also be served as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try crumbling it over vanilla ice cream or using it as a topping for desserts like brownies or chocolate cake. It pairs beautifully with Christmas Waldorf Salad for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid refrigerating it, as this can cause the candy to become sticky. If you have leftovers, separate the pieces with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together, and consume within two weeks for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mr. Hendershot'S Peanut Brittle Candy contains roughly 506 calories, with 8g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg per serving (20% 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 unsalted peanuts for this recipe?
Yes, unsalted peanuts can be used in this recipe. However, if you prefer a sweet and salty contrast, consider adding a pinch of salt to the mixture after adding the peanuts. This will enhance the overall flavor of the candy.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out sticky, it may not have cooked long enough. Ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature, around 300°F (hard crack stage). If it's already made, try refrigerating it for a short time to help firm it up, but note that it may still remain somewhat sticky.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients to the brittle?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other nuts like almonds or cashews. Additionally, for a unique twist, consider incorporating small pieces of dried fruit or chocolate chips after removing the brittle from heat, allowing them to melt slightly before spreading.
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).