Description
This Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a classic, crunchy candy loaded with roasted peanuts and a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery flavor. Made by cooking a sugar syrup to the hard crack stage and incorporating baking soda for a light, airy texture, this peanut brittle is an irresistible treat ideal for holidays, gifts, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup roasted, unsalted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare the Workspace: Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside as this will be needed immediately once the brittle is ready to pour.
- Cook the Syrup: Combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Boil to Hard Crack Stage: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), which is critical for the brittle’s crisp texture.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in the roasted, unsalted peanuts, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to evenly coat the nuts with the hot syrup.
- Incorporate Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately mix in the softened unsalted butter and vanilla extract carefully to enrich the flavor and add smoothness to the candy.
- Add Baking Soda: Stir in the baking soda quickly. This causes the mixture to foam and aerate, creating a lighter, more delicate texture in the brittle.
- Spread the Brittle: Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula or spoon, spread the mixture thinly and evenly to ensure even cooling and the signature thin brittle shape.
- Cool and Break: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until it hardens. Once fully set, break into pieces and store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature to ensure the brittle sets properly.
- Be cautious when handling the hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.
- Store peanut brittle in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
- Unsalted roasted peanuts provide the best flavor balance; salted or raw peanuts may alter taste and texture.
- For a variation, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or substitute vanilla with almond extract.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
