Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
If there’s one classic treat that always inspires smiles and second helpings, it’s Homemade Peanut Brittle. Crisp, golden brown, salty-sweet, and just a little bit nostalgic, this old-fashioned candy is as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re filling a holiday gift tin or enjoying a crunchy snack alongside your afternoon coffee, this simple recipe delivers the signature glassy snap and roasted peanut richness that peanut brittle lovers crave. Ready to wow your friends, your family, or simply yourself? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create your own Homemade Peanut Brittle that rivals anything from the candy shop. Each ingredient has a special job, from making the candy extra crisp to layering in buttery depth and toasty peanut flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: The backbone of brittle, this creates the sweet, glassy crunch you expect.
- Light Corn Syrup: Essential for a smooth, shiny, and easy-to-work-with brittle that won’t crystallize.
- Water: Helps the sugar melt evenly and gives you control over the candy’s texture as it cooks.
- Dry Roasted or Raw Peanuts: Choose your favorite—roasted bring savory depth, raw let that nutty flavor shine through!
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps the brittle break with a delicate snap rather than shatter.
- Baking Soda: The secret to those tiny air bubbles that make every bite crispy and light.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash at the end gives homemade warmth and rounds out the sweetness.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a bit deepens every other flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Brittle
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Before you dive into candy-making, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Have this ready and within arm’s reach, because once that brittle is cooked, you’ll need to act fast. Preparation is the key to perfect, glossy slabs of Homemade Peanut Brittle!
Step 2: Combine and Melt the Base
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir everything together over medium heat just until the sugar granules dissolve, transforming into a silky, clear syrup. Getting the sugar fully dissolved early on helps guarantee that super-crisp texture later.
Step 3: Boil to Hard Crack Stage
Once the sugar mixture starts bubbling, attach a candy thermometer to the side of your pan. Now, resist the urge to stir—simply let it bubble away undisturbed until it reaches the iconic 300°F mark, known as the hard crack stage. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. At this point, the sugar is caramelized, amber, and ready for flavor!
Step 4: Add Peanuts and Butter
Immediately stir the peanuts and butter into your boiling sugar mixture. Keep stirring gently for 1 to 2 minutes—just until everything turns golden and you can smell that irresistible peanut aroma. This step infuses the brittle with nutty richness while the butter softens the brittle’s snap just a little.
Step 5: Finish With Flavor
Remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Get ready—this is where the magic happens! The mixture will foam up as the baking soda reacts, filling your brittle with tiny air pockets that make every bite extra light and snappy.
Step 6: Pour and Cool
Without hesitating, immediately pour the foamy brittle onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer as thin as you like. Now, let the Homemade Peanut Brittle cool completely—about 30 minutes should do it. Once set, snap into pieces and get ready for some serious crunch!
How to Serve Homemade Peanut Brittle
Garnishes
Sometimes, a little something extra takes this classic treat to new heights. For gifting or parties, try sprinkling flaky sea salt or a bit of melted chocolate drizzle across the cooled brittle. It adds irresistible contrast and can elevate Homemade Peanut Brittle into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Side Dishes
This candy sings on its own, but the sweet and salty crunch of Homemade Peanut Brittle pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. You could also crumble it over yogurt parfaits, puddings, or even enjoy it with an after-dinner coffee or espresso for that satisfying finish.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, break brittle into playful shards and pile them into gift jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Layer pieces on a dessert charcuterie board alongside chocolate bark and candied fruits, or turn them into personal party favors. However you serve it, Homemade Peanut Brittle brings out the smiles!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cool, store your brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Tuck it away from humidity and sunlight to keep every shard snappy and fresh for up to two weeks—the perfect make-ahead treat for last-minute gifts or midnight snacks.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Homemade Peanut Brittle! Place pieces in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. It’ll keep for up to three months. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the classic crunch and flavor.
Reheating
Homemade Peanut Brittle is best enjoyed crisp and cool, but if leftovers soften slightly, a short spell in a 250°F oven (about 5 minutes) can help restore some crunch. Just make sure you let it cool completely after reheating before storing again.
FAQs
Do I have to use a candy thermometer?
Using a candy thermometer is strongly recommended for consistent results, as it guarantees you’ll reach the crucial 300°F hard crack stage needed for perfectly crisp Homemade Peanut Brittle. If you don’t have one, look for a deep golden color and test with a drop in cold water—it should become brittle right away.
Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! Try cashews, almonds, pecans, or even a mix for a gourmet twist. Just chop larger nuts so they distribute evenly and keep the signature crunch of classic Homemade Peanut Brittle.
Why did my brittle turn out sticky?
Brittle that feels tacky often didn’t reach a high enough temperature or was made in humid conditions. Make sure to boil until 300°F, and store your Homemade Peanut Brittle in an airtight container—humidity is its enemy!
Can I double the recipe?
You certainly can, but keep in mind that working quickly is key. A larger batch may set up faster, so have two pans ready and pour promptly to ensure even spreading and texture throughout the Homemade Peanut Brittle.
Is Homemade Peanut Brittle gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Always check your ingredient labels, but the standard recipe contains no gluten, making it a safe treat for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about pulling a pan of glossy, golden Homemade Peanut Brittle from your own kitchen. Each piece is packed with love, nostalgia, and the kind of sweet-salty crunch that keeps you coming back for just one more taste. Give this recipe a try, share it with those you love, and enjoy the simple magic of a homemade classic!
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Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes + cooling
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Homemade Peanut Brittle with this easy recipe. Crunchy, sweet, and packed with peanuts, this classic candy is perfect for holiday treats or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Sugar Mixture:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry roasted or raw peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan. Cook to 300°F without stirring.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in peanuts and butter. Cook until golden and fragrant.
- Finish: Remove from heat, add baking soda, vanilla, and salt. Spread on baking sheet to cool.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Do not stir after sugar starts boiling.
- Store in airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
