Popcorn Nut Brittle
A rich, crunchy popcorn and peanut brittle with caramelized sugar and molasses, perfect for sharing as a sweet treat at gatherings or as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, syrup, and salt in a saucepan.
- Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
- Cook rapidly until a small amount in cold water forms a hard ball (260°).
- Add molasses and butter.
- Cook slowly until a small amount forms a hard ball that cracks when bitten and doesn't stick to teeth (275°; lower altitude 280°).
- Pour this syrup over a dishpan sprayed with Pam and half full of buttered popcorn with Planters nuts sprinkled on top.
- Mix cooked syrup with popcorn and nuts using a large wooden spoon.
- Divide and place onto 3 buttered cookie sheets.
- Pound down flat and cool.
- Store in airtight containers.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh popcorn and ensure it is well-buttered before mixing it with the syrup. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the peanuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Cooking the syrup to the correct temperature is crucial; a candy thermometer can help ensure precision. Also, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Popcorn Nut Brittle as a sweet snack during movie nights or as a festive treat during holidays. It pairs beautifully with hot chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, you can crumble the brittle over desserts like brownies or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Popcorn Nut Brittle in airtight containers at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. This will help maintain its crispness. If the brittle becomes soft, you can refresh it in a preheated oven at 250°F for a few minutes. Avoid refrigerating as it can lead to a chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Popcorn Nut Brittle contains roughly 209 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Planters peanuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just ensure they're roasted for the best flavor and crunch. Each type of nut will bring a unique taste to the brittle, making it a customizable treat.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup using the cold water method. Drop a small amount of syrup into a bowl of cold water; if it forms a hard ball, it's ready. This method requires a bit of practice but can be effective for those without a thermometer.
How long does this brittle last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Popcorn Nut Brittle can last for several weeks. However, for the best taste and texture, try to consume it within two weeks. If you notice any signs of moisture or softening, it's best to discard 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).