The Crunchiest Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe Ever

Cracking into homemade peanut brittle reveals a nostalgic journey through sweet and crunchy memories.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this classic candy with simple ingredients and patience.

Sugar bubbling and caramelizing creates a golden landscape of delectable texture.

Mastering this traditional treat connects you to cherished kitchen traditions.

Crisp, amber-hued shards promise a delightful dance of buttery nuttiness on your palate.

The aroma of roasting peanuts and caramelized sugar will transport you to warm, comforting moments.

Grab a spatula and let the candy-making magic begin—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable adventure.

Why Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Is Still A Classic

• Crack and Snap Perfection: Delivers that classic, satisfying brittle texture with a delightful crunch that breaks cleanly and melts in your mouth.
• Quick Sweet Treat: Requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking technique, making it an easy homemade candy that takes just 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
• Nostalgic Flavor Burst: Captures the traditional, rich peanut flavor that reminds you of grandma's kitchen and old-fashioned holiday treats, perfect for creating warm family memories.
• Versatile Holiday Gift: Easily packaged in decorative tins or wrapped in cellophane, this homemade brittle becomes a thoughtful, personalized gift for friends and family during festive seasons.

Everything You’ll Need For Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Sugar, Corn Syrup: The sweet foundation that creates the classic brittle texture, with corn syrup helping prevent crystallization and ensuring a smooth candy.
• Water: Helps dissolve sugar and create the initial syrup.

• Raw Peanuts: Signature ingredient that provides crunch and rich, nutty flavor; raw nuts work best as they'll toast during cooking.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, subtle background depth to the candy.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps prevent burning; use unsalted for better control of sweetness.
• Baking Soda: Creates tiny air bubbles that make the brittle light and crispy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

How To Cook Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Without Fuss

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a non-stick silicone mat. Give the surface a quick spray of cooking spray or gently rub it with butter to help the brittle release smoothly later.

Step 2: Combine Sweet Base

• White sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Water

Stir these ingredients together until they’re completely blended.

Step 3: Heat to Caramel Perfection

Place the pan over medium-high heat. Let the mixture bubble and dance without stirring. Watch carefully as the color transforms from clear to a rich golden amber. This magical transformation takes about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Nutty Crunch

• Raw peanuts
• Salt

Stir quickly to coat the peanuts evenly in the sweet liquid.

Step 5: Cook to Brittle Stage

Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture turns a warm caramel brown and reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage). The peanuts will start to smell wonderfully toasted.

Step 6: Create Brittle Magic

• Butter
• Baking soda

The mixture will foam and become lighter in color. Immediately pour onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading quickly with a spatula.

Step 7: Cool and Break

Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break into irregular pieces by gently tapping with a hard object or using your hands.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay crisp and delicious for about two weeks – if it lasts that long!

Tips To Nail Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Every Time

• Prevent Sticking Hassle: Use parchment paper or silicone mat to guarantee smooth removal of your peanut brittle without breaking or tearing.
• Master Sugar Temperature: Invest in a candy thermometer to precisely track heat, ensuring your brittle reaches the perfect golden-brown caramelization without burning.
• Roast Nuts for Extra Flavor: Lightly toast peanuts beforehand to enhance their natural nuttiness and add depth to the brittle's overall taste profile.
• Cool Quickly and Carefully: Spread the hot mixture thinly on the prepared sheet and let it cool completely at room temperature to achieve that signature crisp, breakable texture.
• Store Like a Pro: Keep your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain crunchiness.

How To Store And Reheat Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Correctly

• Refrigerate: Store cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container lined with parchment paper, separating layers to prevent sticking. Seal tightly to maintain crispness and freshness.
• Room Temperature: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or humidity. Properly stored, the brittle remains crunchy for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: Wrap pieces individually in wax paper, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month without losing texture or flavor.
• Revive Texture: If brittle becomes slightly soft, spread pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 250°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness.

Great Matches For Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Boost Flavor with Bourbon Pairing: Select a smooth, caramel-noted bourbon that complements the sweet and nutty profile of the peanut brittle, enhancing the richness and adding depth to each crisp bite.
• Create a Coffee Companion: Brew a bold, dark roast coffee with hints of chocolate to contrast the sugary crunch, providing a robust counterpoint that cuts through the brittle's sweetness.
• Elevate with Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy salted caramel ice cream alongside the brittle, creating a luxurious dessert experience where textures and temperatures dance together delightfully.
• Match with Dessert Wine: Choose a late-harvest Riesling or a tawny port, whose honeyed notes and slight acidity will beautifully harmonize with the caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts.

Flavor Options For Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Nutty Crunch Medley: Combine different nuts like almonds, cashews, and pecans with peanuts for a more complex flavor profile and varied texture.
• Chocolate-Drizzled Edition: Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle over the cooled peanut brittle for an indulgent extra layer of sweetness.
• Spicy Kick Brittle: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the sugar mixture for a warm, unexpected heat that complements the nutty base.
• Sea Salt Caramel Version: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle just before it completely hardens to enhance the caramel notes and create a gourmet touch.

FAQs On Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• What makes peanut brittle different from other candy types?

Peanut brittle is a classic hard candy that stands out because it combines sweet caramelized sugar with crunchy, salty peanuts, creating a unique texture and flavor that’s both brittle and nutty.

• Is peanut brittle safe for people with nut allergies?

No, peanut brittle contains peanuts and is not safe for individuals with peanut allergies. Always check ingredients carefully if you have food sensitivities.

• How do I know when the sugar is at the right temperature for making brittle?

Use a candy thermometer and look for the mixture to reach 300°F (hard crack stage), which is crucial for achieving the signature crisp, snappy texture of traditional peanut brittle.

• Can I make peanut brittle without a candy thermometer?

While possible, using a candy thermometer is highly recommended to ensure precise sugar cooking and prevent burning, which can quickly ruin the entire batch.

Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet nostalgia meets crunchy delight in this classic Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle recipe that whispers memories of grandma’s kitchen. Crackling caramel and roasted peanuts blend into a golden treat you’ll savor with pure, simple pleasure.

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Ingredients

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Primary Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (200 g) unsalted dry roasted peanuts
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water

Flavoring Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finishing Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

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Instructions

1. Prepare your workspace by laying out a large baking sheet and covering it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, creating a non-stick surface for your candy-making process.
2. Lightly coat the prepared surface with a thin layer of butter or non-stick spray, ensuring the delicate brittle will release effortlessly once cooled.
3. Gather all ingredients and equipment nearby, creating an organized station for precise candy crafting.
4. Position a heavy-bottomed saucepan on the stovetop, ready to transform sugar and corn syrup into a golden, caramelized foundation.
5. Carefully monitor the temperature with a candy thermometer, watching as the mixture reaches the critical hard-crack stage, developing a rich amber hue.
6. Swiftly incorporate roasted peanuts into the molten sugar mixture, stirring quickly to ensure even distribution and prevent burning.
7. Immediately pour the scorching caramel onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it into a thin, even layer that will create a delicate, crisp texture.
8. Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, resisting the temptation to touch or move it during the setting process.
9. Once fully hardened, break the brittle into irregular, rustic pieces by gently tapping with the back of a heavy utensil.
10. Store the finished peanut brittle in an airtight container, preserving its crisp texture and preventing moisture absorption.

Notes

• Use a thick-bottomed heavy saucepan to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning during sugar caramelization.
• Work quickly when pouring the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, as it starts to harden rapidly once removed from heat.
• Break the cooled brittle into irregular pieces for a more rustic, homemade appearance that looks appetizing and artisanal.
• Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crisp texture and prevent moisture absorption.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 165
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 3 mg