Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories, you’ve landed on the right page! This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is not just a candy; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The combination of crunchy peanuts enveloped in sweet, buttery goodness makes this brittle irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a cozy movie night, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

What makes this peanut brittle special? It’s simple! With just a handful of easy ingredients and a little patience, you can whip up this delicious candy right in your kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing or gifting during the holiday season. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires only a few straightforward steps. If you can boil water, you can make peanut brittle!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Treats like these are great for holidays, birthdays, or just because!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! They’ll love watching the mixture bubble and foam.
• Make-Ahead Goodness: This brittle stores well, making it an excellent option for snacks throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of salty peanuts and sweet candy is simply addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle is simple because it only calls for wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items before you start cooking:

For the 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

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this delicious treat!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can mix things up based on what you like or have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to give your brittle an exciting kick!
• Nutty Mix: Swap out some peanuts for other nuts like almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.
• Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.

How to Make Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or using a non-slip baking liner. This step is important because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.

Step 2: Combine Sugar Mixture

In a medium pot, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a full boil. Stir occasionally to make sure everything blends smoothly.

Step 3: Monitor Temperature

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and carefully attach your candy thermometer to the pot. Ensure that it’s submerged but not touching the bottom—this will help you get an accurate reading as we aim for that perfect candy consistency.

Step 4: Boil Until 250°F

Continue boiling while stirring occasionally until your thermometer reads 250 degrees F (this should take about 20-30 minutes). This step is crucial as it ensures your brittle has that nice crunch!

Step 5: Add Peanuts and Salt

Now stir in those delicious peanuts along with salt. Keep cooking until your mixture reaches 295 degrees F (about another 15-30 minutes). This is where all those yummy flavors meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once at temperature, remove from heat and quickly stir in butter and baking soda. As soon as you do this, you’ll notice some bubbling action—don’t worry; that’s just the magic of candy-making happening!

Step 7: Spread It Out

Pour the hot mixture onto your prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula. It’s important to work quickly here because once it cools slightly, it’ll get hard to manage!

Step 8: Cool & 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—you’ll want every last piece to stay crispy!

And there you have it—the perfect Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Making peanut brittle can seem tricky, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Use a Candy Thermometer: This tool is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Cooking to the right temperature ensures that your brittle will be crunchy rather than chewy.
• Keep Your Ingredients Ready: Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking. The process moves quickly once it begins, and being prepared will help you stay on track.
• Stir Gently: When adding the peanuts and salt, stir slowly and gently to prevent splattering hot sugar syrup. This will keep you safe from burns and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
• Work Quickly: Once you remove the pot from heat, pour the mixture onto the baking sheet promptly. This prevents it from hardening in the pot and allows for easy spreading.
• Cool Completely Before Breaking: Let the brittle cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into pieces. This helps maintain its structure and prevents it from crumbling too easily.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe

Peanut brittle is not only a delightful treat on its own, but it can also be served in various creative ways that make it even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the broken pieces adds a rich flavor contrast.
• Sea Salt Sprinkles: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness of the brittle and adds an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the peanut brittle. Use seasonal fruits like berries, melons, or citrus for a zesty complement.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the crunchy texture of peanut brittle. It’s a classic dessert combo that never disappoints!
• Coffee or Tea: Serving your peanut brittle alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting experience, perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses can provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of your candy. Consider soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an upscale touch.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe! It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience to share with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is perfect for meal prep and makes a delightful treat to share or enjoy throughout the week. With just a little planning, you can have this delicious candy ready to go whenever you need it!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crunch.
• Consume within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Although not typically recommended, you can freeze peanut brittle if necessary.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight freezer bag.
• For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• If your peanut brittle has softened, place it on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200 degrees F) for a few minutes to restore its crunch.
• Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe without a candy thermometer?

While it’s highly recommended to use a candy thermometer for accurate results, you can try the cold water test. Drop a small amount of the boiling mixture into cold water; if it forms hard threads, it’s ready!

What is the best way to store my Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe?

To keep your peanut brittle fresh and crunchy, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid humidity as it can cause the candy to become sticky.

Can I substitute peanuts with other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can use other nuts like almonds or cashews if you prefer. Just make sure they are roasted or raw and shelled before adding them to the mixture.

How long does this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your peanut brittle will last about 2-3 weeks at room temperature.

Why does my peanut brittle feel soft instead of crunchy?

If your peanut brittle isn’t crunchy, it might not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. Ensure you’re using a candy thermometer for precise results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe as much as I do! It’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and sweet moments shared with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, I’m sure it’ll bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every crunchy bite!