Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle
Sweet, crunchy peanut brittle offers a rich caramel flavor with roasted peanuts, perfect for sharing or gifting, appealing to those with a sweet tooth and crunchy cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt sugar in a heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and golden.
- Stir in butter, baking soda, vanilla, and peanuts quickly after the sugar melts.
- Pour the hot mixture onto a large buttered platter and spread with forks to the desired thickness.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure the sugar is melted slowly over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You can substitute honey or corn syrup for part of the sugar if desired, but this may alter the flavor. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor or experimenting with different nuts such as almonds or cashews for a twist. This recipe is an easy addition to holiday treat boxes alongside favorites like Sandra's Rolled Sugar Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or as a sweet addition to a dessert platter. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the flavors. For a fun presentation, serve it alongside a selection of other treats like Lush Cake or Favorite Banana Bread during gatherings or holiday parties.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid exposure to humidity, which can cause it to become sticky. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply let it come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle contains roughly 668 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use unsalted peanuts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that using salted peanuts will add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the brittle. Adjust the amount of salt you use in your recipe accordingly to maintain balance.
What do I do if my sugar crystallizes?
If your sugar crystallizes while melting, it can be salvaged by adding a small amount of water and gently reheating it. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves, but avoid disturbing it too much to prevent further crystallization. Using a clean pan and utensils can also help prevent this issue.
Can I add flavorings to the brittle?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your peanut brittle by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of almond extract. Just be cautious with the quantities to ensure they complement rather than overpower the primary flavor of peanuts.
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).