Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and sweet aromas, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is not just any candy; it’s a nostalgic favorite that warms the heart. With its crunchy texture and buttery flavor, this brittle is ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a simple afternoon snack. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make—just a handful of simple ingredients and a candy thermometer are all you need!

There’s something special about homemade candy. It’s a little bit of love wrapped in each bite. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or stashing it away for yourself (I won’t tell!), this peanut brittle will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy items; everything you need is likely already in your pantry!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sugar, peanuts, and butter creates a mouthwatering treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Perfect for Sharing: Wrap up pieces for gifts or serve at parties—everyone will adore this crunchy delight.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This brittle stores well, so whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Peanut Brittle

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/3 cup water
• 16 ounces of roasted or raw peanuts (shelled)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons butter
• 2 teaspoons baking soda

Variations

This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it according to your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy twist!
• Nut Mix-Up: Swap out peanuts for other nuts like almonds or cashews for different flavors and textures.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
• Coconut Crunch: Incorporate toasted coconut flakes into the mixture before pouring onto the baking sheet for added flavor.

How to Make Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-slip baking liner. This will prevent the brittle from sticking and make cleanup easier later on.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized pot, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil. This step is crucial because achieving the right temperature will determine the texture of your brittle.

Step 3: Attach Your Candy Thermometer

Reduce the heat to medium and carefully attach your candy thermometer to the pot. Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid but not touching the bottom or sides. Monitoring this temperature is key to making perfect peanut brittle.

Step 4: Boil Until Perfect Temperature

Continue boiling while stirring occasionally until your thermometer reads 250 degrees F (around 20-30 minutes). This stage helps dissolve all sugar crystals and prepares your mixture for adding peanuts.

Step 5: Add Peanuts and Salt

Stir in those delicious peanuts along with salt at this point. Keep cooking until the mixture reaches 295 degrees F (this can take another 15-30 minutes). This is where that lovely golden color starts developing!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once at temperature, remove from heat immediately! Quickly stir in butter and baking soda—this is where the magic happens! The mixture will foam up and change color; don’t worry, that’s just part of creating that perfect brittle texture!

Step 7: Pouring It All Out

Pour your sticky, sweet mixture onto the prepared baking sheet right away. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan—work quickly while it’s still warm!

Step 8: Cool and Break Apart

Allow your peanut brittle to cool completely before breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Store any leftovers in an airtight container away from moisture—if there are leftovers!

There you have it! Your very own Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Making peanut brittle can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these handy tips!

• Use a candy thermometer: This is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Without it, you might end up with either a chewy or overly hard batch.
• Be patient: Candy-making takes time. Don’t rush the cooking process; allow the mixture to reach the desired temperatures slowly for the best results.
• Prep your workspace: Have everything ready before you start cooking. This includes lining your baking sheet and measuring out ingredients so you can act quickly when needed.
• Watch for color changes: The mixture will change color as it cooks, indicating that it’s reaching the right temperature. Pay attention to this visual cue to avoid burning.
• Store properly: Once cooled, keep your peanut brittle in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness and prevent moisture from ruining it.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Peanut brittle is not only delicious on its own but also makes for a charming treat during gatherings or as a gift. Here are some wonderful ways to present this classic candy!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some finely chopped peanuts on top before the mixture sets adds an appealing texture and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of dairy-free chocolate can add an elegant touch and contrast nicely with the sweetness of the brittle.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of peanut brittle, balancing flavors beautifully.
• Cheese platter: Include a selection of nut-based cheeses with crackers. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with crunchy peanut brittle.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements dessert perfectly, making for a cozy post-dinner treat.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle experience to new heights! Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch in advance and keep it on hand for snacks, gifts, or special occasions. Let’s dive into how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cooled brittle in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in.
• Keep it at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
• Enjoy within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• While freezing isn’t typically necessary, you can freeze peanut brittle if desired.
• Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• If your peanut brittle has become a little sticky, you can reheat it slightly.
• Place pieces on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 200 degrees F for about 5-10 minutes.
• Allow cooling again before enjoying for that crispy texture!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe:

What makes this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe the best?

This recipe combines just a few simple ingredients to create a rich, buttery flavor complemented by crunchy peanuts. The precise cooking temperatures ensure that you achieve that perfect snap we all love!

Can I use different nuts in my Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for peanuts, you can substitute with almonds, cashews, or walnuts. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary since different nuts may vary slightly in cooking time.

How do I know when my peanut brittle is ready?

Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. The mixture should reach 295 degrees F before removing from heat. This ensures the right consistency for that satisfying crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe as delightful and nostalgic as I do! It’s truly special because of its simplicity yet deliciousness, making it a hit with friends and family alike. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with sweet aromas! Enjoy making this treat and share it with those you love; they will surely appreciate your efforts!