Crunchy Peanut Brittle Recipe – Sweet Nostalgia Awaits!

Peanut brittle is a delightful crunchy confection that dances on your taste buds with its sweet, nutty flavor. The moment you break off a piece, you can already imagine its buttery aroma wafting through the air, enticing everyone around you to come closer for a taste.

This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s packed with nostalgia. Picture yourself in the kitchen during the holidays, surrounded by family, as the rich scent of caramelized sugar fills the room. There’s something magical about sharing homemade peanut brittle—it brings people together, making every occasion feel special and festive.

I still remember the first time I tried making peanut brittle; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Granulated Sugar: This is your primary sweetener; choose high-quality white sugar for the best results.

• Light Corn Syrup: It helps prevent crystallization in the sugar mixture for a smooth texture.

• Unsalted Butter: Use real butter to enhance the flavor; margarine just won’t cut it here.

• Salted Peanuts: Opt for roasted salted peanuts for that perfect sweet-and-salty contrast in every bite.

• Baking Soda: This will give your brittle that delightful airy crunch when added at just the right moment.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash will elevate all those flavors beautifully; go for pure vanilla extract if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Tools: Gather a heavy-bottom saucepan, a wooden spoon, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure everything is within reach before starting.

Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup: In your saucepan over medium heat, mix granulated sugar and light corn syrup until well combined. Stir continuously until the mixture is bubbling and reaches a lovely golden hue.

Add Butter and Peanuts: Once bubbles form, add unsalted butter and salted peanuts into the mix. Keep stirring until the butter melts completely—this should take about five minutes.

Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove from heat and quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. Watch out—the mixture will bubble up dramatically like a science experiment gone right!

Spread on Baking Sheet: Pour the hot mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly while it’s still warm—be careful not to burn yourself!

Cool Completely: Allow your peanut brittle to cool at room temperature for about an hour or until completely hardened. Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy!

With this simple guide, you’ll have delicious homemade peanut brittle ready to share (or keep all to yourself—no judgment here!).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing all your ingredients before you begin cooking, ensuring a smooth process. Cook the sugar mixture on medium heat while stirring continuously until it reaches a golden amber color for perfect caramelization.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding a pinch of sea salt or spices like cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or cashews, to create unique variations of peanut brittle.

Storing & Reheating

Store your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. If it gets sticky, a quick 5-minute refresh in the oven at low heat will restore its texture.

Cooking peanut brittle always reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where her laughter filled the air as we made it together. Friends still rave about that crunchy goodness we used to whip up during family gatherings.

FAQ

What is peanut brittle made of?

Peanut brittle is typically made from sugar, corn syrup, peanuts, and butter.

Can I use other nuts for peanut brittle?

Absolutely! Almonds, cashews, or even pecans work beautifully in this recipe.

How do I fix sticky peanut brittle?

If your peanut brittle turns sticky, reheat it in the oven for a few minutes at low temperature.

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Peanut Brittle

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Peanut brittle is a classic sweet treat that perfectly balances crunchy peanuts and caramelized sugar for an irresistible snack. This easy-to-follow recipe captures the nostalgia of homemade treats, making it ideal for sharing during holidays or special occasions. With its inviting aroma and delightful taste, this peanut brittle will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup salted peanuts (roasted)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and gathering your tools.
2. In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until bubbling and golden.
3. Add the unsalted butter and salted peanuts; stir until the butter melts completely (about 5 minutes).
4. Remove from heat, then quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract (the mixture will bubble).
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly while warm.
6. Let cool completely at room temperature for about an hour, then break into pieces and enjoy!

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (28g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg