Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle is a classic confection that combines the rich sweetness of sugar with the earthy crunch of roasted peanuts. This delightful treat is perfect for sharing during the holidays or as a special snack any time of year, appealing to both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar, Karo, and water until it spins a thread.
- Add peanuts and stir continually after peanuts are added. Cook until the mixture turns brownish gold. Remove from heat.
- Add butter, salt, and soda.
- Pour onto a buttered pan to cool.
- When hard, break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfect peanut brittle, ensure the sugar mixture reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F) before adding peanuts. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you can substitute half of the raw peanuts with roasted peanuts. Stir continuously to prevent burning, and consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor. This brittle pairs beautifully with Almond Roca for a delicious treat assortment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve peanut brittle as a standalone snack or as part of a dessert platter alongside treats like Cranberry-Pecan Bars for a sweet contrast. It also makes a fantastic gift when packaged in decorative bags. Pair it with hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, and consider serving it at holiday gatherings for a nostalgic touch.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled and broken into pieces, store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain its crispness, avoid storing it in humid areas. If you have leftovers, you can reheat them gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious to avoid melting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Brittle contains roughly 548 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 851mg per serving (37% 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 different nuts in this peanut brittle recipe?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews. Keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure they don't burn.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out sticky, it likely hasn't reached the proper temperature during cooking. To fix this, you can remelt the brittle in a saucepan until it reaches the hard crack stage again, then pour it onto a buttered surface to cool.
How long does homemade peanut brittle last?
Homemade peanut brittle can last for several weeks if stored properly in an airtight container. However, for the best texture and flavor, consume it within 1-2 weeks of making it.
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).