Virginia Cox'S Peanut Brittle
Virginia Cox's Peanut Brittle offers a crunchy, sweet treat with rich peanut flavor, perfect for sharing or gifting to those who love classic confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, syrup, raw peanuts, water, and salt in a heavy pan.
- Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until peanuts nearly stop popping and lose whiteness when opened.
- Remove from heat.
- Add baking soda quickly and stir fast.
- Pour immediately onto a prepared surface to cool.
- Once cooled, crack into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a successful peanut brittle, ensure all ingredients are measured precisely. If you prefer, you can substitute light corn syrup with honey for a different flavor. Monitor the cooking process closely to avoid burning, and consider using a candy thermometer to achieve the perfect hard crack stage at 300°F. Stirring in baking soda adds a delightful texture, so be quick when adding it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve peanut brittle as a sweet snack on its own or as a festive treat during gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon break. Consider using it as a topping for desserts like ice cream or incorporate it into recipes like Easy Fruit Pie for added crunch and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover peanut brittle, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the candy to become sticky. For best results, separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. If needed, you can reheat it gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia Cox'S Peanut Brittle contains roughly 154 calories, with 2g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2223mg per serving (97% 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?
Yes, roasted peanuts can be used in this recipe, but they may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. If you prefer a nuttier taste, opt for lightly salted roasted peanuts to complement the sweetness of the brittle. Just be cautious with the salt addition in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
How do I know when the peanut brittle is done cooking?
The peanut brittle is done when the peanuts nearly stop popping, and their color deepens. For precision, use a candy thermometer; it should reach the hard crack stage at 300°F. If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should break when cooled, indicating readiness.
What should I do if my peanut brittle is too sticky?
If your peanut brittle turns out too sticky, it likely hasn't reached the proper temperature. You can heat it again gently on the stovetop until it reaches the hard crack stage. Alternatively, you can use it as a delicious topping for desserts or mix it into trail mix to enjoy its flavor without the stickiness.
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).