Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a nostalgic journey of sweet, crunchy perfection? This generations-old peanut brittle recipe isn't just a dessert—it's a delicious piece of family history that will have everyone begging for your secret! Imagine creating a golden, crispy treat that shatters perfectly with each bite, releasing a rich, caramelized flavor that brings warmth and memories to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 pound
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, 1/4 cup of water, 2 cups of roasted peanuts, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with butter. This will prevent the peanut brittle from sticking once it cools.
- In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients, ensuring that the sugar is evenly distributed.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Using a candy thermometer, monitor the temperature of the boiling mixture. You want to cook it until it reaches the hard crack stage, which is about 300°F (149°C). This process should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
- While the sugar mixture is boiling, prepare your peanuts. If they are not already roasted, you can roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Once the sugar mixture reaches the hard crack stage, remove it from the heat immediately. Quickly stir in the roasted peanuts, butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up due to the baking soda, so be cautious.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the peanuts are evenly coated with the syrup. The color should be a beautiful golden brown.
- Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Be careful as the mixture is extremely hot.
- Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes. Once cooled, break it into pieces of your desired size.
- Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade Great Grandma's Peanut Brittle!
Tips
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure you hit the exact hard crack stage at 300°F (149°C). This is crucial for achieving that signature brittle texture.
- Work quickly when adding ingredients after removing from heat—the mixture can set fast and you want to ensure even coating of peanuts.
- Be extremely cautious when handling the hot sugar mixture, as it can cause severe burns. Use long-handled utensils and wear oven mitts.
- For extra flavor, consider using roasted, salted peanuts to enhance the depth of taste.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely before breaking to ensure a crisp, clean snap when you break it into pieces.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunchiness for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
