This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle is the kind of classic candy that feels wonderfully nostalgic sweet, crisp, buttery, and packed with roasted peanuts. It’s easier than it looks, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to make it for holidays, gifting, or simple homemade treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt for sprinkling
Steps
- Prep your pan. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it — once the candy cooks, it moves fast.
- Start the syrup. In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the peanuts. Stir in the peanuts and continue cooking until the mixture turns a deep golden color (around 295–300°F if using a thermometer). Don’t worry it darkens quickly at the end.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the butter, vanilla, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up that’s what gives the brittle its airy crunch.
- Pour and spread. Quickly pour the hot mixture onto your prepared pan and gently spread it thin with a spatula.
- Cool completely. Once hardened, break into rustic pieces.
Chef’s Tips
- Use a candy thermometer if you can: Hitting the right temperature ensures perfect crispness.
- Work quickly after adding baking soda: The mixture firms fast, so having your pan ready helps.
- Make it extra crisp: Keep humidity low brittle loves a dry kitchen.
Variations
- Spicy-sweet brittle: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
- Honey roasted: Use honey-roasted peanuts for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Almond brittle: Swap peanuts for sliced or whole almonds.
Serving Suggestion
Serve in chunky pieces on a dessert tray or package in small bags for gifting it’s an old-fashioned treat that always delights.