Uncle John'S Peanut Brittle
Rich and crunchy peanut brittle with a sweet caramel flavor and roasted peanuts, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or sharing as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Premeasure soda and peanuts; set aside.
- Mix sugar, Karo syrup, and water together in a saucepan.
- Stir and cook continuously until the mixture threads or reaches hard crack stage on a candy thermometer.
- Add peanuts 1/2 cup at a time; stir for 20 to 30 seconds before adding the next portion.
- Cook slowly until the mixture turns light brown and peanuts smell done.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla and butter, then stir.
- Add salt and soda; stir quickly and thoroughly as the mixture foams.
- Pour onto a cookie sheet and do not touch for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a successful peanut brittle, ensure you cook the sugar mixture to the hard crack stage for the perfect texture. If you prefer a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seeds instead of peanuts. It's essential to stir continuously to prevent burning, especially as the mixture thickens. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute the heat evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Uncle John's Peanut Brittle makes a delightful snack on its own or can be served as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a unique dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider packaging it in cellophane bags as homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crunchy. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can cause it to become sticky. If you need to reheat, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes, but be cautious not to melt it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle John'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 52 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 instead of peanuts?
Yes, you can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different nuts can vary in roasting time. Keep an eye on the mixture as you add them to ensure they reach a nice golden color.
What should I do if my brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out too sticky, it likely wasn't cooked to the proper temperature. To remedy this, you can try returning it to the heat and cooking it a bit longer, but be cautious not to burn it. If it's already set, you may need to enjoy it as is or break it into smaller pieces for easier handling.
How can I make my peanut brittle more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your peanut brittle, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture before cooking. Additionally, using roasted peanuts instead of raw can intensify the nutty flavor. A splash of bourbon or whiskey can also add depth to the overall taste if you're feeling adventurous.
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).