Homemade Peanut Brittle is the kind of treat that makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine biting into a piece of this golden delight and hearing that satisfying crunch! It’s a sweet symphony of buttery caramel and roasted peanuts that practically sings in your mouth. Whether you’re sitting on the couch binging your favorite show or hosting a festive gathering, this treat is sure to be the star of the show.
Now, let’s get personal. I remember the first time I made this crunchy goodness my kitchen smelled like a carnival, and my family couldn’t resist sneaking bites before it even cooled down. It became a holiday staple at our house, bringing everyone together for some sweet nostalgia. The best part? You can whip up a batch in less time than it takes to find your favorite show on Netflix!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful homemade peanut brittle is incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients
- The flavor combination of sweet caramel and salty peanuts creates an irresistible treat
- Its stunning golden color and crunchy texture make it visually appealing on any dessert table
- Perfect for sharing as gifts or enjoying during special occasions!
I still chuckle when I think about how my dad tried to steal a piece right off the cooling rack I guess he couldn’t wait until after dinner!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Granulated Sugar: Use pure white sugar for that perfect caramelization; it’s essential for achieving that golden color.
- Light Corn Syrup: This prevents crystallization in your candy, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of your brittle perfectly.
- Raw Peanuts: Roasted peanuts work wonderfully too; choose unsalted ones for balanced flavor.
- Baking Soda: Just a pinch helps aerate the mixture, giving your brittle that light crunch.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Workspace: Gather all your ingredients and cooking tools this includes a heavy-bottomed saucepan and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients in Saucepan: In your saucepan over medium heat, mix together sugar, corn syrup, and butter until it becomes bubbly and turns into a lovely golden caramel.
Add Peanuts: Stir in raw or roasted peanuts once your mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), ensuring they’re well coated in that luscious caramel.
Incorporate Baking Soda: Remove from heat and quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract; watch as it foams up like magic!
Pour onto Baking Sheet: Immediately pour the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet while it’s still hot; spread it evenly with a spatula for thickness.
Cool Completely: Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until hardened this will take about an hour or so.
Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy! You might want to hide some away before everyone else discovers how good it is.
Now you have something truly special Homemade Peanut Brittle! Not only does it bring joy to those who taste it but also memories of laughter shared around the kitchen. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
You Must Know
- Homemade Peanut Brittle is a delightful treat that combines crunchiness and sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion
- The aroma of caramelizing sugar fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere that will have everyone asking for a taste
- Always use fresh ingredients to ensure maximum flavor and texture
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your baking sheet with parchment paper before you begin cooking the sugar mixture. This step saves time and ensures easy cleanup later.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in roasted nuts like almonds or cashews for a unique flavor twist. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt for contrast.
Storing & Reheating
Store your homemade peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crunchy. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can make it chewy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a candy thermometer to achieve the perfect hard crack stage for your peanut brittle
- Be patient when cooking; rushing can lead to burnt sugar
- Allow the brittle to cool completely before breaking into pieces for the best texture
Creating homemade peanut brittle reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would whip up batches every holiday season. Everyone would gather around, eagerly waiting for that first piece what a sweet memory!
FAQ
What type of nuts work best in homemade peanut brittle?
Peanuts are traditional, but almonds or pecans add delightful flavors too.
How long does homemade peanut brittle last?
It lasts about two weeks if stored in an airtight container.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper flavor, but be mindful of consistency changes.
Irresistible Homemade Peanut Brittle
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings
Description
Indulge in the delightful crunch of homemade peanut brittle, a perfect blend of buttery caramel and roasted peanuts that makes for an irresistible treat any time of year.
Ingredients
- Granulated Sugar
- Light Corn Syrup
- Unsalted Butter
- Raw or Roasted Peanuts
- Baking Soda
- Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir until bubbly and golden.
- Once the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), stir in the peanuts until well coated.
- Remove from heat and quickly mix in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up.
- Immediately pour onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature (about 1 hour), then break into pieces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (15g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
