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
Scale
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.
