Peanut Brittle Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that perfect crunchy candy with the sweet, nutty snap, then you’re in for a treat. This Peanut Brittle Recipe is one I absolutely love because it’s not just easy to make, but it results in that classic, almost addictive brittle everyone raves about. Whether you’re a candy-making newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll find that this recipe gives you a golden, crackly candy studded with roasted peanuts that’s perfect for gifting or just sneaking a handful on a cozy night.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Peanut Brittle Recipe is in how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays an important role—from the sugar creating that crunchy backbone to the baking soda giving you those delightful little air bubbles in the brittle’s texture.

• Granulated sugar: The main sweetener that caramelizes perfectly for that signature brittle crunch.
• Light corn syrup: Helps prevent sugar crystals from forming, keeping your brittle smooth.
• Water: Dissolves the sugar initially so it can cook evenly.
• Raw peanuts: Fresh peanuts give a toastier flavor compared to roasted, but you can use roasted if needed.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance and enhance the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the brittle spread smoothly when poured out.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, deep flavor that makes the brittle taste more complex.
• Baking soda: The secret ingredient that aerates the candy, giving it that light, crisp texture.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Peanut Brittle Recipe—for me, a little creativity doesn’t just add a twist, it makes candy time even more fun! Feel free to make it your own; these tweaks have been big hits around my kitchen.

• Nut Swaps: I once swapped peanuts for almonds or pecans—both worked wonderfully and gave a nice flavor twist.
• Spice it Up: Adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon gives it an unexpected but delicious kick that my family went crazy for.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Salted Caramel Brittle: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top right after pouring it out for that irresistible sweet-salty combo.

How to Make Peanut Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready with Your Pan

Before you do any cooking, line an 11×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This is crucial because the candy can get seriously stuck if you don’t prepare your surface properly. I learned this the hard way the first time and ended up with brittle shards glued to a baking sheet forever!

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture to Soft Ball Stage

In a heavy 3–4 quart pan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir constantly over medium heat as the sugar dissolves. Then, just let it bubble gently—try not to stir now—to reach 250°F, which is the soft ball stage. This can take about 20–25 minutes. I recommend using a candy thermometer. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a bit into cold water; it should form a soft but firm ball.

Step 3: Add Peanuts and Cook to Hard Crack Stage

Once at 250°F, stir in the raw peanuts and continue cooking for another 8–10 minutes until the mixture reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage. This is where it really transforms into that hard, brittle candy texture. Make sure to monitor the temperature closely here—going too far can burn it, and too soon results in a chewy finish.

Step 4: Stir in Butter, Vanilla, and Baking Soda

Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The baking soda will cause the mixture to foam up and lighten, so stir quickly but carefully. This step is magical—it’s what makes your brittle light and crunchy rather than dense and hard.

Step 5: Pour and Cool

Pour the foamy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and quickly spread it out into an even layer. Work fast because it sets quickly! I use a buttered spatula or an offset spatula for this. Let it cool at room temperature, undisturbed, for about an hour until completely hardened. Then, break into your preferred sized pieces and store in an airtight container.

How to Serve Peanut Brittle Recipe

Garnishes

While I usually love the Brazilian-style simple peanut brittle just as it is, occasionally I add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after spreading it out. It adds a fantastic contrast that makes the sweetness pop. Sometimes, I drizzle melted chocolate over pieces once cooled for a festive touch.

Side Dishes

This brittle pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee because the bitterness balances the sweet candy nicely. Also, I’ve found it’s perfect to serve alongside ice cream for a crunchy texture contrast. If you’re serving at a party, having a bowl next to fudge or caramel candy makes a delightful variety platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like breaking the brittle into smaller pieces and placing them in decorative glass jars tied with seasonal ribbons. It makes for a charming gift or elegant dessert table look. You can also layer broken brittle pieces into parfait glasses over whipped cream and berries for an eye-catching dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep that signature crunch. I’ve kept pieces fresh for up to two weeks this way without the brittle becoming sticky or soft, which is great for slow snacking.

Freezing

Freezing peanut brittle isn’t usually necessary, but if you want to make a big batch, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When I’ve done this, I let it come to room temperature before breaking it apart to avoid condensation making it sticky.

Reheating

Since peanut brittle is best enjoyed crunchy and at room temperature, I don’t recommend reheating it. If it loses crunch, let it sit uncovered for a bit or warm it slightly in a low oven (250°F) for 5 minutes, but usually, just fresh storage keeps it perfect.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Brittle Recipe has become one of those staples I turn to when I want to wow family or friends with homemade candy. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and gives you that nostalgic crunch that reminds me of holidays growing up. I hope you try it and love it as much as we do. Trust me—once you master this, you’ll find yourself sharing brittle at every gathering, with folks asking for the secret recipe (and now you’ll have it!).

Print