Peanut brittle is a classic candy that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a sweet snack or a thoughtful gift. Making peanut brittle at home is surprisingly easy, and it only requires a few ingredients. In this post, we'll show you how to make homemade peanut brittle that's sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup)
- Water (1/4 cup)
- Roasted peanuts (1 cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Baking soda (1 tsp)
Method
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the mixture. Cook until the temperature reaches 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the roasted peanuts, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up, so be careful.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
- Let the peanut brittle cool completely. Once it's cooled, break it into small pieces.
Tips for Making Perfect Peanut Brittle
- Be patient. It's important to cook the sugar mixture to the right temperature. If it's not hot enough, the peanut brittle won't harden properly.
- Use a candy thermometer. This will help you monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture and ensure that it reaches the right temperature.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda quickly. The mixture will foam up, so be prepared.
- Roast the peanuts before adding them to the sugar mixture. This will give them a nice, nutty flavor.
- Let the peanut brittle cool completely before breaking it into pieces. This will prevent it from sticking together.
Peanut Brittle Frequently Asked Questions
Peanut brittle is a classic candy that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a sweet and crunchy treat that is perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding to your favorite desserts. If you're a peanut brittle lover or are considering trying it for the first time, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about peanut brittle.
What is peanut brittle?
Peanut brittle is a type of candy that is made by cooking sugar and corn syrup until it reaches a hard crack stage. Peanuts are then added to the mixture and poured onto a sheet pan to cool and harden. The result is a sweet and crunchy candy that is perfect for snacking.
Is peanut brittle hard to make?
Peanut brittle can be a bit tricky to make, as it requires precise temperature control and timing. However, with a bit of practice and the right tools, anyone can make delicious peanut brittle at home.
What tools do I need to make peanut brittle?
To make peanut brittle, you will need a heavy-bottomed saucepan, a candy thermometer, a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, and a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
Can I use other nuts besides peanuts?
Yes, you can use other nuts like almonds or cashews to make brittle. You can also add other ingredients like coconut or chocolate chips for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
How do I store peanut brittle?
Peanut brittle should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for up to two weeks if stored properly.
Can I freeze peanut brittle?
A: While it is possible to freeze peanut brittle, it is not recommended. Freezing can cause the candy to become sticky and lose its crunchy texture.
Is peanut brittle vegan?
A: Traditional peanut brittle recipes contain butter, which is not vegan. However, you can easily make vegan peanut brittle by using vegan butter or coconut oil instead.
Is peanut brittle gluten-free?
A: Yes, peanut brittle is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients of any additional add-ins you may use.
Can peanut brittle be used in recipes?
Yes, peanut brittle can be chopped up and used as a topping for ice cream, cakes, and other desserts. It can also be added to cookie or brownie batter for a crunchy surprise.
