Description
Classic Peanut Brittle is a crunchy, sweet candy made by cooking sugar and corn syrup to the hard crack stage, then stirring in roasted peanuts, butter, vanilla, and baking soda. The baking soda causes the mixture to foam and lighten, resulting in a delicate, crisp texture. Perfect for holidays or anytime you want a nostalgic homemade treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups salted roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This will prevent the brittle from sticking and make it easier to remove later.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in the salted roasted peanuts and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer, also known as the hard crack stage.
- Incorporate Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the softened butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Baking Soda: Quickly stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up and become lighter in color. This reaction creates tiny air bubbles, giving the brittle its characteristic light and crisp texture.
- Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out into a thin, even layer to ensure it cools uniformly.
- Cool and Break: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into small, bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to use a candy thermometer to reach the correct temperature for brittle; undercooked candy will be chewy rather than crisp.
- Use room temperature softened butter for easier incorporation without cooling the candy too quickly.
- Baking soda causes foaming—stir quickly to evenly disperse and achieve the best texture.
- Store brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- You can substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
