This homemade peanut brittle is a classic sweet treat made with crunchy roasted peanuts and a crisp, buttery caramelized sugar coating. It’s perfect for holiday gifting, parties, or enjoying as an old-fashioned candy.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:24 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2 cups roasted salted peanuts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease if needed and set aside.
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue cooking until the temperature reaches approximately 250°F (121°C).
Stir in the roasted peanuts and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C), the hard-crack stage.
Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The mixture will foam and expand slightly.
Carefully pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a lightly greased spatula to spread it into a thin, even layer.
Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature until firm and crisp, approximately 30 minutes.
Break the cooled brittle into bite-sized pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
These are adapted, estimated recipe quantities and directions rather than a verified transcription of the linked recipe.
Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the brittle reaches the hard-crack stage at 300°F (149°C).
Have all ingredients measured and ready before beginning because the candy sets quickly.
Roasted salted peanuts provide a delicious balance of sweet and salty flavors. Unsalted peanuts can also be used.
Do not skip the baking soda; it creates tiny air bubbles that give peanut brittle its characteristic light, crisp texture.
Work carefully when handling hot sugar syrup because it can cause severe burns.
Store completely cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, away from humidity.
For gifting, package the brittle in decorative tins or sealed candy bags.