If you’re looking to create a nostalgic treat that delivers a perfect amount of crunch, sweetness, and a little nutty magic, this Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that classic candy that melts away any stress, brings back childhood memories, and fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a wonderfully addictive snack that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing the perfect texture and flavor in your peanut brittle. Each item plays a specific role, from providing sweetness and buttery richness to delivering that signature crunch and the light bubbly texture you love.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This is your primary sweetener and the base for the caramelized flavor you’re after.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: It helps prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth, glossy candy with the right chewiness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and a lovely creamy undertone to balance the sweetness.
- 1 cup raw peanuts: The star of the show, offering crunch and nutty depth; raw peanuts roast beautifully in the candy.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This creates light bubbling in the mixture, giving the brittle its airy, crisp texture.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the candy from tasting overly sweet.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch the hot candy and make sure nothing sticks. This simple step sets you up for an easy release once the brittle cools down and hardens.
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Corn Syrup
In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir continuously as the mixture heats. Keep your eyes on it until it bubbles and turns a beautiful golden brown. This caramelization is where all the magic happens, transforming simple sugars into that irresistible toffee-like base.
Step 3: Add Butter and Peanuts
Once the sugar mixture has caramelized, stir in the butter until it melts smoothly. Next, toss in the raw peanuts and stir to coat every delicious nut in the warm mixture, ensuring they roast perfectly as the candy cooks further.
Step 4: Cook to Perfect Amber
Continue cooking while stirring until the candy reaches a deep amber color and hits about 300°F. This temperature stage, known as the hard crack stage, is crucial for that brittle snap you want in the finished treat.
Step 5: Quick Mix with Baking Soda and Salt
Remove the pan from heat, then quickly add the baking soda and a pinch of salt. The mixture will bubble up vigorously — this reaction aerates the brittle, giving it those delightful tiny air pockets throughout.
Step 6: Pour and Spread
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out as evenly and thinly as possible before it cools and hardens; this will make for ideal breaking pieces later.
Step 7: Cool and Break
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, simply break it into irregular pieces with your hands or a knife, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying homemade sweets out there.
How to Serve Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
Garnishes
While peanut brittle is fantastic on its own, sprinkling a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top right after spreading can take the flavor to the next level by balancing sweetness with a touch of savory crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of dark chocolate for a rich twist.
Side Dishes
This candy pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect after-dinner treat or mid-afternoon pick-me-up. It also complements vanilla or chocolate ice cream beautifully, adding a crunchy texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, package the brittle in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon or arrange broken pieces on a pretty serving platter. You can also crumb it over desserts like brownies or cheesecake for an irresistibly crunchy topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Homemade peanut brittle keeps very well in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure it’s sealed well to prevent moisture from softening the candy; it should stay fresh and crisp for up to two weeks.
Freezing
If you want to keep your peanut brittle fresh even longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw at room temperature—no reheating required.
Reheating
Generally, peanut brittle is best eaten as-is once cooled, but if it softens due to humidity, a quick flash in a warm oven (around 250°F for 5 minutes) can help refresh its crispness. Just be careful not to overheat, or it will melt again.
FAQs
Can I use roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
While it’s possible, using raw peanuts is preferable as they roast in the hot caramel, which enhances their flavor and ensures the best texture in your brittle.
Why is my peanut brittle sticky after it cools?
Sticky brittle often means it didn’t reach the hard crack stage temperature or was exposed to moisture. Make sure to cook it to about 300°F and store it in a dry environment.
Can I substitute baking soda for baking powder?
Baking soda is essential here because it causes the bubbling reaction that aerates the brittle. Baking powder won’t provide the same effect and may affect texture.
What’s the best way to break the brittle into pieces?
Once fully cooled, use your hands, a rolling pin, or the back of a spoon to break it into pieces. Avoid cutting when hot, as it will be too soft and sticky.
Can I add other nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almonds, cashews, or even pumpkin seeds for different textures and flavors. Just adjust quantity accordingly to maintain balance.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing this Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe. It’s simple enough for a weekend kitchen adventure yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Once you taste that perfect crunch and rich caramel flavor, you’ll see why this timeless classic earns a special place in every candy lover’s heart. So go ahead, give it a try, and create your own batch of sweet memories in every bite!
Print
Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Peanut Brittle recipe offers a classic, crunchy candy treat made with simple ingredients including granulated sugar, corn syrup, and raw peanuts. The brittle is cooked to a perfect deep amber color for a rich, caramelized flavor and finished with a touch of baking soda for lightness and a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. Ideal for holiday gifting or satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe yields crisp, delicious peanut brittle in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup raw peanuts
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the brittle from sticking and allow it to cool properly.
- Cook Sugar and Corn Syrup: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar and cook until the mixture becomes bubbly and turns golden brown.
- Add Butter and Peanuts: Stir in the unsalted butter until melted. Then add the raw peanuts, mixing to coat them evenly with the caramel mixture.
- Cook to Deep Amber: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches a deep amber color and reaches approximately 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Add Baking Soda and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in the baking soda and a pinch of salt; the mixture will bubble and foam, which creates a lighter brittle texture.
- Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly to your desired thickness before it cools and hardens.
- Cool and Break: Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into pieces and enjoy your crunchy homemade treat.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution to avoid burning.
- A candy thermometer is recommended for precise temperature monitoring.
- Add peanuts fresh and raw for the best texture and flavor; roasted peanuts can be used but may affect cooking time.
- Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Be cautious while working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
