Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Peanut Brittle Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 61 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 servings (depends on piece size)
  • Category: Candy
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This classic Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a perfectly crunchy, sweet and salty candy that’s easy to make at home. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and roasted peanuts, this peanut brittle is cooked to the hard crack stage for a satisfying snap. Enhanced with vanilla and a touch of butter for richness, this treat is perfect for holiday gifting or anytime snacking.


Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Brittle Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 ½ cups raw peanuts
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda


Instructions

  1. Preparation: Line an 11×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to ensure the brittle does not stick after pouring.
  2. Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy 3–4 quart pan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat while stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F, which should take about 20–25 minutes. This stage is known as the soft ball stage and is crucial for proper texture.
  3. Add Peanuts and Continue Cooking: Stir in the raw peanuts and continue cooking the mixture until the temperature reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage, which takes an additional 8–10 minutes. This ensures the brittle will harden properly and have a crisp texture.
  4. Add Flavor and Pour: Remove the pan from heat immediately. Quickly stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda until fully combined. The baking soda will cause the mixture to foam slightly, creating a light texture. Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly using a spatula or by gently tilting the pan.
  5. Cool and Break: Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. Once hardened, break it into pieces of preferred size and store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings to ensure the brittle sets correctly.
  • Work quickly when stirring in butter, vanilla, and baking soda as the mixture hardens fast.
  • When spreading the brittle, be careful as the mixture is extremely hot.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness up to two weeks.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 20g)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg