Indulge in the perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness with our homemade peanut brittle recipe!
Using fresh and simple ingredients, our recipe yields a delightfully crunchy peanut brittle that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or gifting it to loved ones, our homemade version beats store-bought any day.
History of peanut brittle
Peanut brittle is a classic American confectionary that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when sugar was becoming more widely available and affordable. Initially, it was a luxury item, reserved for special occasions and holidays. However, as sugar became more accessible and peanuts became popular, peanut brittle became a staple in American households.
Ingredients
Making peanut brittle at home is surprisingly easy, and the ingredients are simple and accessible. You’ll need:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 1/2 cups of roasted, unsalted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Steps
1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir at this point.
4. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue cooking until it reaches 300°F (149°C) – also known as the hard crack stage. This should take approximately 7-10 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the peanuts, butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. The mixture will bubble and foam – this is normal.
6. Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Let the peanut brittle cool and harden for approximately 30 minutes.
8. Once the peanut brittle has cooled, break it into bite-sized pieces using a mallet or rolling pin.
Tips and tricks for perfect peanut brittle
Making peanut brittle can be intimidating, but with a few tricks, you can achieve perfect results every time.
– Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the mixture from burning.
– Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature.
– Do not stir the mixture once it starts boiling. Stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize and ruin the texture of the peanut brittle.
– Be careful when adding the peanuts, as the mixture will bubble and foam. Use a long-handled spoon or spatula to stir in the peanuts.
– Spread the peanut brittle out quickly and evenly to ensure a consistent thickness.
– Let the peanut brittle cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Variations and flavor additions to peanut brittle
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add different flavors and variations to your peanut brittle recipe. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled peanut brittle.
– Add cinnamon or other spices for a warm and spicy flavor.
– Swap out the peanuts for almonds, cashews, or other nuts.
– Add shredded coconut or dried fruit for a tropical twist.
Storing and packaging homemade peanut brittle
Homemade peanut brittle can last for several weeks if stored properly. To store your peanut brittle, place it in an airtight container or ziplock bag and keep it at room temperature. Avoid storing it in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause the peanut brittle to become soft and sticky.
If you’re giving homemade peanut brittle as a gift, you can package it in a cute tin or box. Add a ribbon or gift tag for a personal touch.
FAQs
Q: Why did my peanut brittle turn out too hard or too soft?
A: The temperature of the sugar mixture is crucial to the texture of the peanut brittle. If it reaches a higher temperature than 300°F (149°C), it will be too hard. If it doesn’t reach 300°F (149°C), it will be too soft. Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the temperature is accurate.
Q: Why did my peanut brittle turn out grainy?
A: If the sugar mixture is not stirred frequently enough, it can form crystals and become grainy. Make sure to stir the mixture occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
Q: Can I use salted peanuts in my peanut brittle?
A: Yes, you can use salted peanuts in your peanut brittle recipe. However, omit the salt in the recipe, as the peanuts will already be salted.
Enjoy!
Making homemade peanut brittle is a fun and rewarding experience that will leave you with a delicious treat that you can enjoy or share with friends and family. With our simple recipe and tips, you’ll be able to create perfect peanut brittle every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will be sure to impress. So, let’s get cracking and make some sweet and salty heaven!
