Nanny'S Peanut Brittle
Nanny's Peanut Brittle is a crunchy, sweet treat featuring roasted peanuts in a caramelized sugar and corn syrup coating, perfect for sharing or gifting during holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, peanuts, syrup, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook until the mixture turns light brown and the peanuts stop popping.
- Add margarine and baking soda, stirring briefly.
- Pour the hot mixture into a greased cookie sheet without spreading.
- Allow to cool completely, then break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To prevent sticking, ensure your cookie sheet is well-greased. If you need a vegan alternative, substitute margarine with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds instead of peanuts. Keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks; overcooking can lead to a burnt flavor while undercooking may result in a chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or as a topping for desserts like ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Uncle Steve'S Favorite Apple Crumb Pie for a delightful contrast of flavors. Consider serving it alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as moisture can make it sticky. To reheat, simply place it in a warm oven for a few minutes, but be careful not to melt it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanny'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 166 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1340mg per serving (58% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts. Just be aware that roasted peanuts might alter the cooking time slightly, as they are already cooked. Keep an eye on the mixture to ensure it doesn't overcook.
What can I do if my peanut brittle is too soft?
If your peanut brittle turns out too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. You can try reheating it gently on the stove to further cook the sugar mixture. Be cautious not to burn it while doing so.
How can I add flavor variations to my peanut brittle?
You can add various flavors to your peanut brittle by including vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt after adding the margarine and baking soda. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the mixture.
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).