Description
This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a classic, crunchy candy with a rich caramelized sugar base and the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts. Sweet, salty, and buttery, this homemade brittle is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/3 cup water
- 16 ounces roasted or raw shelled peanuts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-slip baking liner to prevent the brittle from sticking once poured.
- Combine Sugar Mixture: In a pot over medium-high heat, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Attach Candy Thermometer: Reduce heat to medium and carefully attach a candy thermometer ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid but not touching the pot’s sides or bottom for accurate temperature readings.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Continue boiling the sugar syrup, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 250°F (approximately 20-30 minutes). This is the soft ball stage important for the candy’s texture.
- Add Peanuts and Salt: Stir in the peanuts and salt thoroughly into the syrup.
- Cook to Hard Crack Stage: Continue cooking the mixture until the thermometer reaches 295°F (about 15-30 minutes). This ensures the brittle will harden properly and be crisp.
- Remove from Heat and Add Butter & Baking Soda: Take the pot off heat and immediately stir in the butter and baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color, indicating the baking soda’s reaction creating air bubbles for a brittle texture.
- Pour and Spread: Quickly pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it evenly before it sets.
- Cool and Break: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, then break it into bite-sized pieces. Store any leftovers in an airtight container away from moisture to maintain crunchiness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to ensure perfect brittle texture.
- If peanuts are raw, consider roasting them beforehand for added flavor.
- Handle hot sugar syrup carefully to avoid burns.
- Store brittle in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming sticky or soft.
- For a variation, try substituting peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peanut brittle, old fashioned candy, homemade brittle, peanut candy, classic brittle recipe
