Mrs. Decker'S Peanut Brittle
Mrs. Decker's Peanut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich peanut flavor, perfect for sharing at gatherings or satisfying homemade candy cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat white syrup, sugar, and water to 230°F.
- Add raw peanuts and cook until mixture reaches 300°F.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and baking soda.
- Pour onto a buttered marble slab and stretch until thin.
- Let cool completely.
- Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your peanut brittle turns out perfectly, use a candy thermometer for precise temperature readings. If you can't find white syrup, light corn syrup works as a good substitute. Stir the mixture gently and avoid splashing to prevent crystallization. For added flavor, consider toasting the raw peanuts slightly before adding them to the mixture. This will enhance the nuttiness of the brittle.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Consider serving it alongside your favorite dessert, like Allie'S Cream Cheese Cake, for a sweet treat combination. You can also chop it into smaller pieces and use it as a topping for ice cream or blend it into a dessert charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store the finished peanut brittle in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy. If humidity is a concern, consider adding a piece of parchment paper between layers to absorb moisture. Avoid refrigerating the brittle, as this can cause it to become sticky. It can last for several weeks when stored properly in a cool, dry place.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Decker'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 258 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1264mg per serving (55% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts if you prefer a deeper flavor. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning the brittle.
What should I do if my candy mixture crystallizes?
If your mixture crystallizes, try to gently reheat it while stirring to dissolve the crystals. Adding a small amount of corn syrup or water can help smooth it out. Ensuring your cooking pot is clean and free of any sugar residue can also prevent this issue.
How can I tell when the brittle is done cooking?
The peanut brittle is done when it reaches a temperature of 300°F, which is known as the hard crack stage. At this point, it should be a light amber color. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test a small drop in cold water; it should harden immediately.
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).