Old Fashioned Peanut Candy
Old Fashioned Peanut Candy offers a rich, chewy treat with the sweetness of sorghum syrup and sugar, complemented by the crunch of ground peanuts. Its nostalgic flavor makes it perfect for peanut lovers and those craving a classic homemade confection. Great for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sorghum syrup and sugar together in an iron skillet to softball stage.
- Add a pinch of baking soda, half a stick of margarine, and ground peanuts to the mixture.
- Pour the hot mixture into a greased pan and allow to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect softball stage, use a candy thermometer, aiming for 234-240°F. If you don't have sorghum syrup, you can substitute with molasses or dark corn syrup, but this will alter the flavor slightly. For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits. If your mixture becomes too hard, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften before pouring.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut candy makes a delightful treat on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Granny'S Watergate Salad for a sweet and savory combination. For a festive touch, serve alongside Green Party Punch at gatherings. Cut into small squares for easy sharing or package as gifts for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its texture. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating it to prevent stickiness. To reheat, place it in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat, as it can become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Peanut Candy contains roughly 799 calories, with 1g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground peanuts are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like almonds or cashews. Just grind them to a similar consistency and adjust the quantity to your taste. This allows for variations that can cater to different preferences, making the recipe versatile.
What if my candy doesn't set properly?
If your candy remains too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. You can try reheating it gently and bringing it back to the softball stage before pouring it into the pan again. If it doesn't work, consider using it as a topping for ice cream or mixing into a granola.
How long will this candy last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this peanut candy can last for up to two weeks at room temperature. If refrigerated, it may last a bit longer, but the texture may change. Always check for any signs of moisture or spoilage before consuming.
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).