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Classic Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe for That Perfect Snap

A stack of broken, golden-brown pieces of homemade peanut brittle recipe piled high on a light gray plate.
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Make homemade peanut brittle with that perfect buttery crunch and satisfying snap. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and clear candy thermometer guidance to help you achieve the hard crack stage every time. It is ideal for holiday candy trays or thoughtful gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups roasted, unsalted peanuts
  • 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a large baking sheet with butter or line it with a silicone mat. Set aside.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed, large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and attach a candy thermometer. Do not stir the mixture once it begins to boil.
  4. Cook the sugar mixture until it reaches 250 degrees Fahrenheit (the soft-ball stage). This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. Add the roasted peanuts to the syrup. Continue to cook, stirring constantly but gently, until the mixture reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit (the hard crack stage). Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately when it reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up rapidly. Stir just until combined.
  8. Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Do not spread it with a spatula; let it flow naturally.
  9. Allow the brittle to cool completely, about 30 minutes, until hard.
  10. Once fully cooled and hard, break the peanut brittle into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for accuracy; hitting the hard crack stage (300°F) is the secret to a perfect snap.
  • Work quickly once you add the baking soda, as the reaction happens fast.
  • For a sweeter, saltier snack, use lightly salted peanuts.
  • If you want to make this for holiday candy gifts, wrap pieces individually in cellophane bags.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/peanut-brittle-recipe/