Mom’s Best Peanut Brittle

Quick Benefits

Mom’s Best Peanut Brittle is a sweet and salty treat that provides a delightful crunch with every bite. It’s an easy-to-make candy that’s perfect for holiday gifts or a special snack to share with loved ones. With a combination of sugar, corn syrup, and peanuts, this brittle delivers a satisfying balance of sweetness and nuttiness, and the recipe comes together quickly, especially if all ingredients are prepared in advance.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar: Provides the base sweetness for the brittle.
• ½ cup light corn syrup: Helps to prevent crystallization and gives the brittle its smooth, chewy texture.
• ¼ cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar and corn syrup to form the candy base.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• 1 cup peanuts: Adds a nutty flavor and crunch to the brittle.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Contributes to the smoothness and richness of the brittle.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Causes the candy to puff slightly and makes the texture lighter.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the baking sheet: Grease a large, rimmed baking sheet and set it aside.
2. Cook the sugar mixture: In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and bring to a boil, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the peanuts: Stir in the peanuts and place a candy thermometer into the mixture.
4. Cook to the right temperature: Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 300-310°F (150-155°C).
5. Finish the mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in butter and baking soda.
6. Pour onto the baking sheet: Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use two forks to quickly spread the mixture into a 12×14-inch rectangle.
7. Cool the brittle: Allow the candy to cool completely until firm, at least 30 minutes.
8. Break into pieces: Once cooled, use a mallet to break the peanut brittle into pieces.
9. Enjoy!: Store in an airtight container for later or enjoy immediately.

Health Benefits

Peanut brittle is a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. Peanuts provide a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which contribute to overall heart health and muscle function. The candy’s sugar content offers a quick energy boost, but keep in mind that it is high in calories, so it’s best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom’s Best Peanut Brittle as a sweet snack at gatherings, holiday parties, or as a homemade gift. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or a dessert salad for added texture and flavor.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Dipped Peanut Brittle: After breaking the brittle into pieces, dip them in melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
• Spicy Peanut Brittle: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Other Nuts: Swap peanuts for almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• Maple Peanut Brittle: Use maple syrup in place of the corn syrup for a different flavor profile that’s perfect for autumn.

Storage Tips

Store the peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid environment, consider storing it in the refrigerator to prevent it from becoming too soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the brittle for up to 3 months; just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Pro Tips

• Use a candy thermometer: This is essential for achieving the right texture. Without a thermometer, it’s hard to reach the perfect temperature that results in the ideal crunch.
• Act quickly: Once the butter and baking soda are added, work quickly to spread the mixture on the baking sheet. It will start to harden fast, so having everything ready beforehand will make the process smoother.
• Avoid overcooking: Be sure to monitor the temperature closely. If the brittle goes beyond 310°F, it may become too hard and brittle to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted peanuts for this recipe?
Yes, salted peanuts can be used in place of unsalted peanuts if you prefer a sweeter-salty balance. Just be sure to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.

What happens if the brittle doesn’t harden?
If the peanut brittle doesn’t harden, it may not have reached the correct temperature. You can try reheating the mixture and bringing it back to the correct temperature, then pouring it onto the baking sheet to cool again.

Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?
While it’s possible to make peanut brittle without a thermometer, it’s difficult to achieve the right texture. The candy thermometer ensures the mixture reaches the perfect temperature for proper hardening and crunch.

Can I use a different type of sugar in this recipe?
You can experiment with different sugars, like brown sugar, for a caramel-like flavor. However, the texture may vary slightly with alternative sugars.

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