Peanut Brittle Recipe
Peanut Brittle is a timeless treat that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy goodness. This old-fashioned candy makes a delightful homemade gift or nostalgic snack.
This Peanut Brittle recipe comes together on the stovetop with just a handful of pantry staples and roasted peanuts, filling your kitchen with a cozy, caramel aroma.
Essential Ingredients for Peanut Brittle
- Sugar – Provides the classic brittle sweetness and caramelized crunch.
- Light corn syrup – Ensures smooth texture and prevents the sugar from crystallizing.
- Water – Helps dissolve the sugar evenly as it cooks.
- Salted roasted peanuts – The star ingredient, adding a satisfying salty crunch.
- Butter – Adds richness and a hint of buttery depth.
- Baking soda – Creates the airy, crisp texture by adding tiny bubbles.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses warm, comforting flavor.
How to Make Peanut Brittle: Quick Steps
Start by prepping your sheet pan with parchment paper and measuring all ingredients ahead of time. Dissolve sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until it boils.
Attach a candy thermometer and keep an eye on the temperature. When it reaches 250°F, stir in the peanuts and cook until it hits 300°F. Remove from heat and stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla. The mixture will foam up delightfully.
Carefully pour the hot brittle onto your prepared pan and quickly spread it out into an even layer. Let it cool completely, then break into pieces to enjoy or gift.
Tips & Sweet Variations for Peanut Brittle
Timing is everything when making Peanut Brittle, so have all your ingredients pre-measured and ready to go before you start. Stir constantly after adding the peanuts to prevent burning and to achieve even golden color.
For a twist, swap peanuts for cashews, almonds, or pecans. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled brittle can also create a fun spin on this classic treat. Homemade brittle makes a fantastic edible holiday gift, too.
Keeping Your Peanut Brittle Fresh & Crunchy
Once your Peanut Brittle has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating it, as moisture will make it sticky and soft.
For longer storage, freeze fully cooled brittle in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just be sure it’s sealed well to maintain that irresistible snap.
Peanut Brittle Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups salted roasted peanuts
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Arrange the peanuts, butter, baking soda, and vanilla so they are measured and ready for immediate use. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine sugar and water, stirring to blend thoroughly, then incorporate the corn syrup. Set the pan over medium heat, taking care not to increase the heat, and stir occasionally until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Fasten a candy thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring the bulb is immersed in the syrup but not in contact with the bottom. Continue cooking, stirring intermittently, until the temperature rises to 250°F (121°C). Stir in the peanuts and maintain constant stirring as the thermometer climbs to 300°F (149°C). Once the desired temperature is reached, withdraw the pan from heat and immediately mix in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla; the mixture will foam and alter in consistency. Promptly pour the hot brittle onto the prepared pan and, using a knife or spoon, carefully spread it into an even layer. Allow the candy to cool undisturbed for at least 30 minutes, then break it into pieces. Store in an airtight container once completely cooled.
Notes
Storage: Once thoroughly cooled, place the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as humidity can soften the candy.
Freezing: Fully cooled brittle may be frozen for up to 3 months when sealed in a freezer-safe, airtight container.
