Description
This Best Peanut Brittle Recipe is a classic, crunchy candy made with roasted salted peanuts, caramelized sugar, and a hint of vanilla. The perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors makes it an irresistible treat to enjoy at any time or give as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups roasted salted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set it aside to cool the brittle once cooked.
- Mix Sugar Base: In a large deep stockpot, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Whisk thoroughly to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Heat Sugar Mixture: Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pot making sure the bulb is suspended in the mixture without touching the pot’s bottom. Heat the mixture on high, stirring occasionally as the temperature approaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Add Peanuts and Continue Cooking: When the mixture reaches 250°F, stir in the roasted salted peanuts. Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Finalize Mixture: Turn off the heat and quickly stir in the unsalted butter, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir briskly; the mixture will foam and lighten in color.
- Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the foamy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a silicone spatula to quickly spread it out in an even layer.
- Cool and Break: Let the brittle cool completely for at least one hour until hardened. Once cooled, break into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Make sure to use a candy thermometer to accurately measure sugar temperature for perfect brittle texture.
- Spread the mixture quickly after cooking as it hardens fast.
- Store peanut brittle in an airtight container to keep it crisp.
- For a variation, substitute peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews.
- Use unsalted peanuts and adjust salt accordingly if you prefer less salt.
