Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) Recipe
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This Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle recipe delivers a classic, crunchy candy loaded with roasted peanuts and a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery flavor. Made by cooking a sugar syrup to the hard crack stage and incorporating baking soda for a light, airy texture, this peanut brittle is an irresistible treat ideal for holidays, gifts, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside as this will be needed immediately once the brittle is ready to pour.
Combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), which is critical for the brittle’s crisp texture.
Stir in the roasted, unsalted peanuts, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to evenly coat the nuts with the hot syrup.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately mix in the softened unsalted butter and vanilla extract carefully to enrich the flavor and add smoothness to the candy.
Stir in the baking soda quickly. This causes the mixture to foam and aerate, creating a lighter, more delicate texture in the brittle.
Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula or spoon, spread the mixture thinly and evenly to ensure even cooling and the signature thin brittle shape.
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until it hardens. Once fully set, break into pieces and store in an airtight container for freshness.