- Measure out peanuts in one container, and butter, baking soda and vanilla in another. Have them ready. This recipe goes quickly near the end.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2-3 cups salted roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
Homemade Peanut Brittle in 6 steps:
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Cook sugar mixture. Add sugar and water to a medium saucepan and stir well. Stir in corn syrup. The corn syrup helps avoid crystallization. Cook mixture over medium heat (don’t be tempted to turn the heat up!), stirring occasionally, until it comes to a gentle boil. It is not necessary to start stirring continually until it starts to boil. Cook until temperature reaches 250F (121°C).
- Attach your candy thermometer to the edge of the pot, and make sure it is submerged in the liquid, but not touching the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in peanuts. Add peanuts and stir the mixture constantly until the candy thermometer temperature reaches 300 degrees F.
- Remove from heat.
- Add remaining ingredients. Immediately stir in butter, baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will foam and change texture.
HINT: I mix this mixture in with about 1/2 C peanuts so it pours easily. - Pour into sheet pan. Carefully pour the hot mixture onto a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Use a knife or spoon to quickly (and carefully!) spread the mixture into an even layer.
- Cool and enjoy. Allow to cool completely (at least 30 minutes) before breaking apart and eating.
- Store the completely cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container.
Corn Syrup Substitutes:
If you need to substitute corn syrup in this peanut brittle recipe, you can substitute cup for cup of:
- honey
- light molasses
- agave nectar
- brown rice syrup
You could also substitute a combination of these ingredients and please note that with any of these substitutions, the peanut brittle will have a lightly different taste, texture and consistency as well.
Notes
To make ahead: Peanut brittle can be made several days or even weeks in advance. It stays fresh at room temperature for 6-8 weeks weeks.
To store: Store peanut brittle (once it’s completely cooled) in an airtight container at room temperature. Do not refrigerate as the moisture from the fridge will cause the brittle to soften. Store for 6-8 weeks.
To freeze: Peanut brittle can be frozen and stored up to 3 months. Allow the brittle to cool completely and store it in a freezer safe, airtight container.
