Special Peanut Brittle
A crunchy, sweet peanut brittle with rich caramel flavor and crunchy peanuts, perfect as a nostalgic treat or gift for candy lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sugar, corn syrup, and water to the soft ball stage.
- Add raw peanuts; stir constantly until the peanuts pop and the mixture turns golden brown.
- Remove from heat; stir in salt, soda, and paraffin.
- Quickly pour the mixture thinly onto a buttered cookie sheet.
- Allow to cool; break into squares just before the candy is completely cold.
Tips & Substitutions
When making peanut brittle, ensure your sugar mixture reaches the soft ball stage for the perfect texture. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute with roasted sunflower seeds. Stirring continuously is crucial to prevent burning, so keep the heat moderate. For added flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before pouring onto the cookie sheet.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. Consider pairing it with a refreshing Lime Slush Punch for a summery treat. For a festive touch, gift pieces in decorative bags during the holiday season or serve it at gatherings for a nostalgic dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch. Avoid storing in the fridge, as moisture can make it sticky. If the brittle becomes soft, you can re-crisp it in a low oven for a few minutes, ensuring it cools completely before storing again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Special Peanut Brittle contains roughly 340 calories, with 11g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% 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 roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can use roasted peanuts if you prefer. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they won't need as long to reach the desired golden color. Keep in mind that roasted peanuts may impart a different flavor, but they will still create a delicious brittle.
How do I know when the sugar mixture is at the soft ball stage?
To check for the soft ball stage, you can use a candy thermometer, aiming for about 240°F (115°C). Alternatively, drop a small amount of the syrup into cold water; if it forms a soft, pliable ball, it’s ready for the peanuts!
What can I do if my peanut brittle turns out too hard?
If your peanut brittle is too hard, it may have been cooked too long. To soften it up a bit, you can place the pieces in a sealed container with a slice of bread for a day. The moisture from the bread will help soften the brittle slightly.
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).