If you’re searching for that sweet, crunchy treat that takes you right back to grandma’s kitchen, Homemade Peanut Brittle is the recipe you need. This classic candy combines melt-in-your-mouth caramel shards with the irresistible crunch of roasted peanuts, all bound together in a golden, glossy sheet. The magic happens fast (and just a little bit messy!), and every bite delivers buttery sweetness and nuttiness in perfect harmony. Whether you’re making it for gifts, a party, or just for family movie night, homemade peanut brittle is delightfully addictive and surprisingly easy to master at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples, you’re moments away from creating this crunchy treat. Don’t skip or swap these simple ingredients, because each one is crucial for the irresistible flavor, snappy texture, or beautiful color of your homemade peanut brittle. Here’s why they matter:
- Granulated Sugar: The base for your brittle, sugar caramelizes to create that signature glossy, golden crunch.
- Light Corn Syrup: Keeps the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, glassy finish (plus it adds chewiness!)
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and gives you a little more time to work—don’t worry, it cooks off.
- Salt: Just a touch elevates the flavors and keeps the brittle from being overly sweet.
- Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts: The star! Their rich, nutty flavor brings classic peanut brittle to life.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps give the brittle a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Baking Soda: Causes the mixture to foam, making your brittle airy and perfectly crisp.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla ties all the flavors together for a warm, irresistible aroma.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Brittle
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Before you begin cooking, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This easy step ensures your homemade peanut brittle doesn’t stick later. Have everything ready—this candy comes together quickly and you’ll need to move fast once it’s done cooking!
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble. You’ll want a smooth and clear syrup at this stage; patience is the secret ingredient here, so don’t rush!
Step 3: Bring to Soft Crack Stage
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of your pan. Let the mixture cook undisturbed (no stirring!) until it reaches 280°F, which is the soft crack stage. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, so now’s a good time to measure out your peanuts and other add-ins.
Step 4: Add the Peanuts
Pour the peanuts into your bubbling syrup and start stirring gently but consistently. As the mixture continues to cook, keep a close eye on the thermometer. You’re aiming for the hard crack stage, which is a toasty 300°F—this is what gives homemade peanut brittle that signature snap.
Step 5: Final Add-Ins
Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. The baking soda will cause the mixture to fluff up—it looks dramatic, but that’s exactly what you want for brittle that’s light and crisp!
Step 6: Spread and Cool
Pour the foaming mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and quickly use a spatula to spread it as thinly and evenly as you can. Work fast, because this stuff starts to harden in seconds. If you want to add a fancy twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before it sets.
Step 7: Break Into Pieces
Let the peanut brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s firm and glossy, break it into bite-sized pieces and get ready for the most satisfying crunch!
How to Serve Homemade Peanut Brittle
Garnishes
Dress up your homemade peanut brittle with a sprinkle of sea salt, a drizzle of dark chocolate, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty, festive look. These tiny touches add a gourmet flair and make every piece extra special—a real treat for the eyes and the taste buds!
Side Dishes
Pair pieces of peanut brittle with a bowl of vanilla ice cream or toss some into a sweet snack mix with dried fruit and pretzels. It’s also delicious alongside a cup of hot coffee or strong black tea, especially during the holidays when you want a little something sweet with your hot beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re gifting your homemade peanut brittle, pile the pieces in glass jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Arrange shards as a striking centerpiece on a dessert platter, or crumble them over cupcakes and cakes for a colorful, crunchy topping. There are so many fun ways to show off this golden treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your homemade peanut brittle perfectly crisp, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure it’s completely cooled and dry before sealing; moisture is brittle’s enemy! It’ll stay crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks, making it a brilliant option for holiday prep or edible gifts.
Freezing
While peanut brittle generally holds up best at room temperature, you can freeze it if you really need to. Wrap it tightly in plastic and seal in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw at room temperature, uncovered, for the best texture—just keep in mind that freezing might make the brittle slightly tacky.
Reheating
Homemade peanut brittle is meant to be enjoyed as-is, but if your pieces lose their snap, you can rescue them! Place pieces on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 250°F) for 3–5 minutes, then let them cool completely. This technique can help restore some of that signature crunch.
FAQs
Why did my peanut brittle turn out chewy instead of crisp?
This often means the sugar mixture didn’t reach the hard crack stage, or too much humidity got into the brittle after it cooled. Always use a reliable thermometer and make sure to store your homemade peanut brittle in an airtight container once it’s cooled and set.
Can I substitute different nuts?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe uses dry roasted peanuts, you can swap in cashews, almonds, pistachios, or even a blend for a fun twist. Just be sure the nuts you use are roasted and unsalted for the best results.
Is homemade peanut brittle gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free—just be sure to double-check your ingredient labels if you have dietary concerns. It’s a sweet treat that nearly everyone can enjoy!
How do I prevent my brittle from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper or a well-greased baking sheet solves this problem. If you want even easier cleanup, silicone baking mats work wonders for homemade peanut brittle as well.
What’s the best way to break the brittle into pieces?
Once it’s completely cooled and hardened, just use your hands to snap the brittle into jagged pieces. If you need more control, a gentle tap with a wooden spoon works great—just avoid using sharp knives, as they can shatter the brittle unpredictably.
Final Thoughts
There is simply nothing like the joy of cracking into fresh, homemade peanut brittle made right in your own kitchen. Every crispy, nutty shard is its own tiny celebration! Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a treasured tradition (and a much-requested treat) for years to come. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
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Homemade Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious homemade peanut brittle with this easy recipe. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime you crave a sweet and crunchy snack.
Ingredients
Sugar Mixture:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsalted dry roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it and set aside.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture boils. Attach candy thermometer and cook to 280°F (soft crack stage).
- Add Peanuts: Stir in peanuts and continue cooking to 300°F (hard crack stage). Remove from heat.
- Finish Brittle: Quickly stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla. Pour mixture onto baking sheet, spread thinly, and let cool.
- Break and Store: Once cooled, break brittle into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Work quickly when spreading the brittle, as it hardens fast.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before it sets.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
