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Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle is a crunchy, golden candy made with sugar, butter, and roasted peanuts. It has a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with a light, airy texture. Made on the stovetop, this recipe comes together quickly and makes a great holiday gift!


Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare Your Equipment:

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter.
    • Measure all ingredients ahead of time, as the candy-making process moves quickly!
  • Cook the Sugar Mixture:

    • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat.
    • Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
    • Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and let the mixture cook undisturbed until it reaches 300°F (150°C) (hard crack stage). This takes about 10–15 minutes.
  • Add Peanuts & Butter:

    • Once the sugar mixture reaches 250°F (120°C), stir in the peanuts and continue cooking, stirring frequently.
    • When the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), quickly remove it from the heat.
  • Add Baking Soda & Spread the Brittle:

    • Stir in butter, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up and become lighter in texture—this is what gives brittle its airy crunch!
    • Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it thinly using a spatula.
  • Cool & Break into Pieces:

    • Let the brittle cool completely for about 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Baking Soda Trick: The baking soda helps create tiny air bubbles, making the brittle less dense and more crispy.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a twist!