Easy Homemade Peanut Brittle: A Classic Candy Recipe Perfected

Classic Homemade Peanut Brittle: A Sweet and Crunchy Delight

This irresistible peanut brittle recipe creates the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in a satisfyingly crunchy candy that’s been delighting families for generations. With simple ingredients and careful technique, you’ll create a confection that’s perfect for holiday gifts, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why This Peanut Brittle Recipe Works

There’s something magical about homemade candy, especially when it comes to classic peanut brittle. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe delivers:

• Perfect texture – Crisp and crunchy without being too hard on your teeth
• Balanced flavor – Just the right sweetness with nutty depth
• Foolproof method – Clear instructions even for candy-making beginners
• Make-ahead convenience – Stores beautifully for weeks

The History Behind Traditional Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle has a rich American heritage dating back to the late 19th century. Legend has it that the candy was created by accident when a Southern cook made a mistake with toffee. Whatever its origins, this sweet treat has become a beloved classic, especially during the holiday season when homemade candy gifts reign supreme.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Peanut Brittle

• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup raw, unsalted peanuts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Equipment Essentials

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Silicone spatula
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat
• Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tip: Having all your ingredients measured and ready (mise en place) before starting is crucial for candy making success!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Peanut Brittle

1. Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside. Have all ingredients measured and ready to go before starting.
2. Create the sugar base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Heat the mixture: Bring to a boil, then attach your candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (121°C).
4. Add the peanuts: Stir in peanuts and salt. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 300°F (149°C) and the mixture turns a golden amber color.
5. Incorporate remaining ingredients: Remove from heat and quickly stir in butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Add baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the mixture and stir vigorously. The mixture will foam up and become lighter in color – this creates the brittle’s characteristic airy texture.
7. Pour and spread: Immediately pour onto the prepared baking sheet and spread to your desired thickness using a silicone spatula. Work quickly as the candy will begin to set rapidly.
8. Cool completely: Allow the brittle to cool at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes until completely hardened.
9. Break and serve: Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces of desired size. Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Tips for Peanut Brittle Success

• Watch your temperatures carefully – Candy making is precision work! A good thermometer is essential.
• Humidity matters – Try to make brittle on dry days as humidity can affect how the candy sets.
• Don’t skip the baking soda – It creates tiny air bubbles that give brittle its characteristic texture and makes it easier to bite.
• Work quickly when adding the final ingredients and pouring – the mixture starts setting fast.
• For thinner brittle, have a larger baking sheet ready or divide between two sheets.

Common Peanut Brittle Problems and Solutions

Brittle is too sticky? You likely didn’t reach a high enough temperature during cooking. Make sure to use a reliable candy thermometer.

Brittle tastes burnt? The mixture cooked too long or at too high a temperature. Watch carefully as it approaches 300°F.

Brittle is too hard? You may have overcooked it slightly. Next time, remove from heat just as it reaches the target temperature.

Variations on Traditional Peanut Brittle

• Mixed Nut Brittle: Substitute half the peanuts with cashews, pecans, or almonds.
• Spicy Brittle: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a sweet-heat kick.
• Chocolate-Drizzled Brittle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark, milk, or white chocolate.
• Sea Salt Brittle: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top while still warm for a gourmet touch.

Storage and Gifting Your Peanut Brittle

Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between layers, homemade peanut brittle will stay fresh for 6-8 weeks. This makes it perfect for preparing ahead for holiday gifts!

Gifting Ideas

• Package in decorative tins lined with parchment paper
• Fill cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons
• Layer in mason jars with custom labels
• Include a copy of the recipe for a thoughtful touch

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1/16 of recipe):

• Calories: 144 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 132mg
• Sugar: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 4mg

FAQs About Making Perfect Peanut Brittle

Can I make peanut brittle without a candy thermometer?

While a candy thermometer ensures the best results, you can use the cold water test. Drop a small amount of the syrup into cold water – it should form hard, brittle threads that snap when bent.

Why did my brittle turn out chewy instead of crunchy?

The mixture likely didn’t reach a high enough temperature. Make sure to cook until 300°F for that perfect crunch.

Can I use salted peanuts?

Yes! Just omit the additional salt in the recipe.

Is peanut brittle gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredients for cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

Whether you’re making this classic peanut brittle to satisfy your sweet tooth or to share as a heartfelt gift, this foolproof recipe delivers perfect results every time. The combination of crunchy texture and sweet-salty flavor makes this time-honored candy a favorite that never goes out of style!