Description
This Homemade Peanut Brittle recipe yields a classic, crunchy candy made from caramelized sugar, roasted peanuts, and a hint of butter and baking soda for lightness. Perfect as a sweet treat or holiday gift, it combines the rich flavor of butter and peanuts with the satisfying crisp texture of brittle.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter (cut into ½-inch thick slices)
- 2 1/4 cups dry roasted peanuts (unsalted)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat; set aside to prevent sticking when the hot brittle is poured.
- Cook sugar mixture: In a large pot, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Attach a candy thermometer to the pot’s side and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
- Add and melt butter: Carefully add sliced butter to the boiling mixture. Stir frequently and continue to cook until the thermometer reaches 280°F, approximately 15 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and caramelize.
- Add peanuts and cook further: Stir in the dry roasted peanuts and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the temperature reaches 305°F. This stage deepens the flavor and ensures the perfect brittleness of the candy. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda, which aerates and softens the brittle slightly.
- Pour and cool: Immediately pour the hot mixture evenly onto the prepared sheet pan. Spread it out evenly to about 1/4-inch thickness. Let it cool completely at room temperature until hardened, then break into pieces to serve or store.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve the perfect brittle texture.
- Baking soda is essential for aeration, which gives the brittle a lighter, less dense texture.
- Make sure to spread the mixture quickly after adding baking soda because it starts to set fast.
- Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For a variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract before adding peanuts for extra flavor.
