Peanut Brittle With Chocolate
A rich, crunchy peanut brittle layered with smooth chocolate, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings and ideal for sharing during holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil together sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and water until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
- Add butter and baking soda, stirring until just mixed.
- Add dry roasted peanuts and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased cookie sheet and spread evenly.
- Immediately sprinkle with semi-sweet chocolate bits, leaving in pieces or smoothing with a spatula.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar mixture reaches the precise 300°F for perfect brittleness. If you prefer, substitute the dry roasted peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor. Make sure to work quickly after pouring the mixture onto the cookie sheet, as it will harden rapidly. Also, if you want a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate bits instead.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut brittle pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful treat for afternoon snacks or dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Colleen's Fudge during the holidays. You can also break it into smaller pieces and package them as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it from becoming sticky, separate layers with parchment paper. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the chocolate to bloom and alter the texture. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a microwave or oven to soften it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Brittle With Chocolate contains roughly 682 calories, with 6g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2029mg per serving (88% 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 other nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While peanuts are traditional, you can substitute them with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time if needed, as different nuts may require different cooking times to achieve the desired crunch.
What should I do if my candy doesn't reach 300°F?
If your mixture isn't reaching the desired temperature, it may be due to insufficient heat or inaccurate thermometer readings. Ensure that your burner is set to medium-high and that your thermometer is calibrated correctly. Patience is key; continue to boil and monitor closely until it reaches the proper temperature for the perfect brittle.
How can I add flavor to the peanut brittle?
You can enhance the flavor of your peanut brittle by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture just before pouring it onto the cookie sheet. Experimenting with different flavorings can elevate the traditional taste and make it uniquely yours.
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).