Classic Peanut Brittle
This homemade peanut brittle is perfectly crunchy, buttery, and easy to make with simple ingredients. A classic treat great for gifting or snacking!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Heat Sugar – Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Dissolve – Stir until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring once boiling.
- Cook – Attach a candy thermometer and heat until 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Test Without Thermometer – Drop a bit in cold water; it should harden and snap.
- Add Butter & Peanuts – Quickly stir in butter, peanuts, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir in Baking Soda – Remove from heat and stir in baking soda; mixture will foam.
- Spread – Pour onto the baking sheet and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Cool – Let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Break & Store – Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Storage – Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
- Customization – Swap peanuts with almonds, cashews, or pistachios.
- Flavor Boost – Add cinnamon, cayenne, or drizzle with chocolate.
- Nut-Free Option – Use sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of peanuts.
- Gifting Tip – Wrap in decorative bags or tins for homemade gifts.