Name: Peanut Brittle Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup water; 1 cup butter; 2¼ cups peanuts; 1 tsp Baking Soda

Peanut brittle is a classic sweet treat that's perfect for any occasion. It's simple to make with just a few ingredients and the end result is a crunchy, nutty goodness that's hard to resist. Perfect for holiday gift giving or simply enjoying at home.

Photos of Peanut Brittle Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this peanut brittle recipe are likely already in your pantry. The only ingredient you might need to pick up from the supermarket is light corn syrup, which is essential for the candy's hard, clear texture. Peanuts are also a key ingredient, so ensure you have enough on hand.

Ingredients for Classic Peanut Brittle

Granulated sugar: A common baking ingredient that adds sweetness to the peanut brittle.

Light corn syrup: Gives the brittle its hard and shiny texture.

Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the peanuts.

Water: Used to dissolve the sugar and corn syrup.

Butter: Adds richness and a hint of creaminess to the brittle.

Peanuts: The star ingredient of the recipe, providing a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Baking soda: Creates tiny bubbles, making the brittle easier to eat.

One reader, Karylin Willey says:

This classic peanut brittle recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet and salty is perfection. The crunchy texture and rich flavor make it a hit with everyone. It's so easy to make and always impresses. I love it!

Karylin Willey

Techniques Required for Making Classic Peanut Brittle

How to prepare the pan: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat to prevent the peanut brittle from sticking.

How to use a candy thermometer: Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan to monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture accurately.

How to test for the soft-crack stage: To test if the sugar mixture has reached the soft-crack stage, drop a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form brittle threads that are pliable.

How to spread the peanut brittle: Spread the peanut brittle to a ¼-inch layer on the prepared sheet pan to ensure even cooling and easy breaking into pieces later.

How To Make Peanut Brittle

Roasted peanuts are slathered with sweet and buttery syrup to make a peanut brittle that’s crispy and satisfyingly sweet.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsgranulated sugar
1cuplight corn syrup
¼tspsalt
½cupwater
1cupbuttercut into slices
2 ¼cupsdry roasted peanutsunsalted
1tspbaking soda

Instructions

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
Place the sugar, corn syrup, salt and water in a large, deep pan. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil. This takes about 6 to 7 minutes.
Add the butter to the pan. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until a candy thermometer registers 280 degrees F. This takes about 15 minutes.
Add the peanuts to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring constantly, or until a candy thermometer registers 305 degrees F.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the baking soda.
Pour the peanut mixture evenly onto the sheet pans. Spread to a ¼ inch layer.
Cool, then break into pieces and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 1000.35kcal
Fat: 79.59g
Saturated Fat: 14.03g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 37.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 23.00g
Carbohydrates: 51.13g
Fiber: 12.41g
Sugar: 34.44g
Protein: 37.75g
Cholesterol: 20.34mg
Sodium: 113.16mg
Calcium: 138.77mg
Potassium: 1032.05mg
Iron: 6.70mg
Vitamin A: 64.70µg

Key Technique Tip for Perfect Peanut Brittle

When making peanut brittle, it's crucial to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking. This is because the sugar mixture can quickly go from the perfect temperature to burnt in a matter of seconds. Having everything prepared in advance, a technique known as mise en place, will ensure a smooth cooking process and a perfectly crunchy peanut brittle.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Classic Peanut Brittle Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a candy thermometer: This will help you accurately monitor the temperature, ensuring the peanut brittle turns out perfectly.

Work quickly: Once the peanut mixture is ready, move swiftly to pour and spread it before it starts to harden.

Organize your workspace: Having all the tools and ingredients within reach will help you work efficiently.

Cool efficiently: Place the sheet pan in the fridge or freezer to speed up the cooling process and hasten the time to enjoy your delicious peanut brittle.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Brittle Recipe

granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and will add a unique flavor to the brittle.
light corn syrup - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar consistency and sweetness to the brittle.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the brittle.
peanuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used for a different nutty flavor and texture in the brittle.
baking soda - Substitute with cream of tartar: Cream of tartar can help with the texture and structure of the brittle.

Presenting Your Homemade Peanut Brittle

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peanut brittle, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a clean, white plate to allow the golden color of the brittle to stand out. Arrange the broken pieces in an artistic and deliberate manner, creating height and dimension on the plate.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance to the presentation by garnishing the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violas. The vibrant colors and delicate nature of the flowers will provide a beautiful contrast to the rich, golden tones of the peanut brittle.
Incorporate a drizzle: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a decorative drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication but also complements the flavors of the peanut brittle.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a sense of balance and sophistication. Allow the peanut brittle to be the focal point, surrounded by carefully considered empty spaces that draw attention to the dish.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an opulent and luxurious presentation, consider adding a delicate touch of edible gold leaf to the plate. This subtle addition will elevate the dessert to a new level of sophistication and elegance.

Essential Tools for Making Peanut Brittle

Candy thermometer: A thermometer used to measure the temperature of sugar syrups and candies during cooking.
Sheet pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans.
Nonstick baking mat: A reusable silicone mat used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent sticking.
Large, deep pan: A heavy-bottomed, deep pan used for cooking the peanut brittle mixture.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A sturdy spoon made of wood, used for stirring and mixing hot candy mixtures.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to chop or grind the peanuts.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Clip: A clip used to attach the candy thermometer to the side of the pan.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for spreading and smoothing the peanut brittle mixture on the sheet pan.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Peanut Brittle

Once the peanut brittle has cooled completely, break it into pieces and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
To keep the peanut brittle fresh and crisp, place a piece of wax paper between each layer of brittle in the container.
If you live in a humid environment, consider adding a desiccant packet to the container to absorb any excess moisture and prevent the brittle from becoming sticky or soft.
For longer storage, you can freeze the peanut brittle for up to 2 months:
- Place the brittle pieces in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
- If using a container, place wax paper between each layer of brittle to prevent them from sticking together.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
To thaw frozen peanut brittle, remove it from the freezer and let it come to room temperature in the sealed container or bag. This will help prevent condensation from forming on the brittle, which can make it sticky or soft.

Random Fact About Classic Peanut Brittle

The classic peanut brittle recipe is a popular treat during the holiday season. It is believed that peanut brittle was first created in the southern United States, and it has since become a beloved confection worldwide. Peanuts, the main ingredient in peanut brittle, are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. Peanuts are also a rich source of antioxidants, making peanut brittle a somewhat healthier candy option. Peanut brittle is often enjoyed as a sweet snack or given as a homemade gift during festive occasions. It's a delicious and crunchy treat that is loved by many!

Is Making Peanut Brittle at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peanut brittle recipe is quite high. The ingredients are simple and readily available, making it an affordable treat for a household. With sugar, corn syrup, and peanuts as the main components, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The yield of the recipe is substantial, making it a cost-effective option for a delightful homemade snack. Rating: 9/10

Is Classic Peanut Brittle Healthy or Unhealthy?

This classic peanut brittle recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - sugar, corn syrup, and butter - are all high in calories and low in nutritional value. The peanuts do provide some protein and healthy fats, but they are also high in calories. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar and unhealthy fats can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar and corn syrup, or replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use unsalted butter to control sodium intake, or replace some of the butter with heart-healthy oils like coconut or olive oil
Increase the proportion of peanuts to the sugary base, providing more protein and healthy fats
Add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for extra nutrients and crunch
Experiment with using alternative nuts like almonds or cashews, which offer different nutritional benefits

By making these adjustments, you can create a peanut brittle that is still satisfying and flavorful but with a slightly improved nutritional profile. However, it's important to remember that even with these changes, peanut brittle should still be consumed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.

Editor's Thoughts on This Classic Peanut Brittle Recipe

This classic peanut brittle recipe is a timeless favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. The combination of sugar, corn syrup, and butter creates a rich, caramelized base, while the addition of peanuts adds a delightful crunch. The careful cooking process ensures a perfect texture, and the addition of baking soda gives the brittle a light and airy finish. This recipe is a wonderful treat to enjoy on its own or to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Enhance Your Peanut Brittle Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tangy lemon herb sauce

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a zesty honey lime dressing

Alternative Recipes Similar to Classic Peanut Brittle

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and satisfying soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, creating a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds creates a delicious and guilt-free pudding that you can enjoy any time of day.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Classic Peanut Brittle

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. This classic appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, this classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser. The rich and velvety Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and al dente pasta. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a truly comforting meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce come together in this hearty and flavorful dish. The combination of earthy mushrooms and tangy sour cream creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Serve over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Why trust this Peanut Brittle Recipe:

This classic peanut brittle recipe is a timeless favorite, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. The combination of peanuts and butter creates a rich, nutty flavor, while the precise cooking temperatures ensure the perfect crunch. Our meticulous testing and attention to detail guarantee consistent, delectable results every time. Trust in the simplicity and tradition of this recipe to create a delightful treat that will impress your friends and family. With just a handful of ingredients, including sugar, corn syrup, and baking soda, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of homemade confections.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to make peanut brittle?

It takes about 30-40 minutes to make peanut brittle from start to finish, including the cooling time.

Can I use salted peanuts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted peanuts, but be mindful of the additional salt content. You may want to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

How should I store the peanut brittle?

Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Can I add other nuts to the peanut brittle?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different nuts like almonds, cashews, or pecans to create your own unique variation of brittle.

Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?

While a candy thermometer is recommended for precision, you can still make peanut brittle without one. You can use the cold water test method to check the candy stages. When a drop of the mixture in cold water forms hard and brittle threads, it has reached the desired stage.