Peanut Brittle

Why Make This Recipe

Peanut brittle is a classic candy that combines the delicious crunch of peanuts with the sweetness of sugar. It’s simple to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. Plus, this recipe is quick and requires just a few ingredients, making it an easy treat to whip up anytime you want something special.

How to Make Peanut Brittle

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup salted peanuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Butter (for greasing the cookie sheet)

Directions:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1/2 cup light corn syrup and 1 cup of sugar.
2. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.
3. Add 1 cup of salted peanuts to the mixture and microwave for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Carefully stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Be cautious as the mixture will be hot and foam up.
5. Pour the mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet and allow it to cool.
6. Once cooled, break into pieces.

How to Serve Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is great on its own as a sweet snack. You can also serve it during holidays or special occasions as a tasty treat. Place it in a decorative bowl, or wrap pieces in clear bags for gifts. It pairs nicely with hot beverages like coffee or tea.

How to Store Peanut Brittle

To keep your peanut brittle fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will remain good for several weeks if kept dry. Avoid refrigeration, as that can make the brittle chewy rather than crunchy.

Tips to Make Peanut Brittle

• Use a microwave-safe bowl that is large enough to prevent overflowing.
• Keep a close watch on the mixture while microwaving to prevent burning.
• Use salted peanuts for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
• Grease the cookie sheet well to make it easier to remove the brittle once cooled.

Variation

You can add other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different twist. Some people also enjoy adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make peanut brittle on the stove instead of in the microwave?
Yes, you can. Heat the corn syrup and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Then add the peanuts and continue cooking until it reaches the hard crack stage.

How can I know when my peanut brittle is done?
You can do a cold water test. Drop a small amount into cold water; if it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.

What should I do if the peanut brittle sticks to the pan?
If it sticks, try gently warming the bottom of the pan with warm water to loosen it. You may also reheating slightly in the microwave can help.

Peanut Brittle

A classic candy combining crunchy peanuts with sweet sugar, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 8 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients for Peanut Brittle

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup salted peanuts Use for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla Add at the end of cooking.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda Causes the mixture to foam up.
• to taste Butter For greasing the cookie sheet.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix 1/2 cup light corn syrup and 1 cup of sugar.
2. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.
3. Add 1 cup of salted peanuts to the mixture and microwave for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Carefully stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 teaspoon of baking soda, being cautious as the mixture will be hot and foam up.
5. Pour the mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet and allow it to cool.
6. Once cooled, break into pieces.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the brittle chewy rather than crunchy. You can also add other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different twist, or sprinkle sea salt on top for extra flavor.