If you’re searching for an irresistibly crunchy treat that always wows at the holidays (or any day), look no further than Classic Peanut Brittle! This nostalgic homemade candy is a glorious combination of buttery sweetness and salty roasted peanuts, all wrapped up in a golden, glassy sheet that snaps perfectly between your fingers. Whether you’re an experienced candy-maker or a curious beginner, Classic Peanut Brittle delivers that delightful old-fashioned flavor with simple ingredients and foolproof steps—it’s truly a must-have addition to your dessert repertoire.

Classic Peanut Brittle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Classic Peanut Brittle is the way every simple ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that signature balance of texture and flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can craft a candy that tastes like it came straight from a vintage sweet shop.

Granulated sugar: The backbone of the candy, providing the sweet crunch and classic structure.
Light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and gives the brittle its smooth, glossy texture.
Water: Aids in dissolving the sugar evenly for a seamless caramel base.
Roasted unsalted peanuts: Brings the all-important nutty crunch and rich peanut flavor—choose unsalted to control the final seasoning.
Unsalted butter: Adds a luxurious, creamy depth and helps the candy stay tender (not tooth-shattering!).
Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and rounds out the flavors—don’t skip this for true Classic Peanut Brittle taste.
Baking soda: This is the magic: it creates tiny bubbles, making the brittle light and crisp rather than dense.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the candy from becoming cloyingly sweet.

How to Make Classic Peanut Brittle

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This little bit of prep work is essential and will save you serious headaches later, as it ensures your Classic Peanut Brittle pops right off the pan in perfect, glossy shards instead of sticking or crumbling. Set the tray aside close to your stovetop so you’re ready to pour when the time comes!

Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture

In a sturdy, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely—watch for a clear, unified syrup. Once that happens, stop stirring and let the mixture work its magic! Bring it to a steady boil, attach a candy thermometer, and keep a close eye as it approaches that all-important hard crack stage (300°F). This usually takes 10 to 12 minutes, and patience here is handsomely rewarded.

Step 3: Add the Peanuts

As soon as your sugar syrup hits 300°F, quickly add in the roasted unsalted peanuts. Stir them in with a heatproof spatula, letting their nutty aroma bloom as they combine with the sweet, golden caramel. Let it cook for another minute or two; this gives the peanuts a chance to toast even more and soak up that syrupy goodness.

Step 4: Finish with Butter, Vanilla, Baking Soda, and Salt

Take the pot off the heat immediately and work fast for this grand finale. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This is the magical moment—watch as the mixture foams up and lightens in color. The baking soda is the secret ingredient that gives Classic Peanut Brittle its signature crisp, airy bite. Stir quickly and thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Pour and Cool

Without delay, pour the hot, bubbly candy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula (buttered or nonstick is best), spread it out as thinly and evenly as possible. Working quickly is the key here; the brittle sets fast! Let the candy cool completely at room temperature—this usually takes about 30 minutes. Once it’s firm, break it into jagged, golden pieces and get ready for that satisfying snap.

How to Serve Classic Peanut Brittle

Garnishes

Pure, unadorned Classic Peanut Brittle is a beauty all on its own, but if you want to jazz things up, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate just before serving adds a gourmet touch and extra decadence. For festive flair, a dusting of edible gold glitter can make your homemade candy fit for any party table.

Side Dishes

For a wonderfully nostalgic dessert spread, serve your brittle alongside vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh fruit—think juicy orange slices or crisp apples. The classic combo of Classic Peanut Brittle and a mug of hot coffee or cocoa is practically unbeatable, especially during the chilly months.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap your brittle pieces in parchment and pop them in cellophane bags for charming homemade gifts, or stack them in mason jars with a pretty ribbon. At gatherings, pile the golden shards high on an elegant platter or tuck small pieces into lunchboxes for a sweet mid-day surprise. Classic Peanut Brittle is made to be shared and admired!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The secret to keeping your Classic Peanut Brittle irresistibly crisp is simple: an airtight container. Once completely cooled and broken up, store the pieces at room temperature away from any humidity or heat—your brittle will stay fresh and snappy for up to two weeks.

Freezing

Believe it or not, you can freeze Classic Peanut Brittle! Just be sure to place the brittle in layers separated by wax or parchment paper inside a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it come to room temperature uncovered—this keeps condensation at bay and preserves the delicate texture.

Reheating

Classic Peanut Brittle is all about that crisp crunch, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if it’s gotten a little sticky from humidity, a brief stint in a low (200°F) oven for 5 to 10 minutes can help dry it out. Let it cool again before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use salted peanuts instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! Just remember to skip the added pinch of salt, or your Classic Peanut Brittle may turn out too salty. Using salted peanuts is a great shortcut for even more flavor if you want a savory kick.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

If you don’t have a candy thermometer, keep a close eye on the color and do the “hard crack” test: Drop a small spoonful of the hot mixture into a cup of cold water. If it becomes hard, brittle threads, it’s ready!

Can I add different nuts?

Definitely! While Classic Peanut Brittle is all about those signature peanuts, you can experiment with cashews, almonds, or pecans as well—just make sure they’re roasted and unsalted for best results.

How do I spread the hot brittle quickly enough?

This part takes a bit of speed! Prep everything in advance and have an offset spatula or buttered silicone spatula at the ready. Pour and spread as soon as you stir in the final ingredients, as the mixture sets up fast.

Why is my brittle sticky or chewy instead of crisp?

This usually means the sugar didn’t reach the proper temperature, or that the brittle was stored in a humid environment. Be sure to hit that hard crack stage (300°F) for that signature snap, and always store in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a homemade treat that delivers pure joy in every crunchy, golden bite, Classic Peanut Brittle deserves a spot in your kitchen. Don’t be intimidated by candy-making—this recipe is all about simple ingredients, fun in the kitchen, and sharing a sweet piece of nostalgia with family and friends. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for that addictive peanutty crunch!

Classic Peanut Brittle Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make the classic peanut brittle at home with this easy recipe. Crunchy, sweet, and nutty, this homemade brittle is a perfect holiday treat or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup water
1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Additional Ingredients:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it and set aside.
Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring the mixture to a boil without stirring further. Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), about 10 to 12 minutes.
Add Peanuts: Quickly stir in the peanuts and continue cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes.
Final Steps: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. The mixture will foam—stir quickly and carefully. Immediately pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out as thinly as possible using a spatula. Let cool completely, then break into pieces.