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Peanut Brittle

This old-fashioned peanut brittle has a rich buttery caramel flavor with crisp roasted peanuts in every bite. Cooking the syrup to the hard crack stage creates the signature crunchy texture, while baking soda gives the candy its light, airy bite. It's a timeless homemade treat that's perfect for holidays, gifts, or anytime you're craving classic peanut brittle.

Contributor: Grandma Lenon
Peanut Brittle

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Temp

300°F (hard crack)

Yield

12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Step 1
    1

    Prepare the pan. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it well with butter. Set aside so it's ready when the brittle is poured.

  2. Step 2
    2

    Cook the sugar mixture. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.

  3. Step 3
    3

    Add the peanuts and butter. Once the syrup reaches 240°F (soft ball stage), stir in the peanuts and butter. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) and turns a deep golden amber color.

  4. Step 4
    4

    Finish with baking soda and vanilla. Remove the pan from the heat. Quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla, and pinch of salt. The mixture will foam and become lighter in color.

  5. Step 5
    5

    Pour and spread. Immediately pour the brittle onto the prepared pan. Spread it thin using a spatula or the back of a spoon, working quickly before it begins to set.

  6. Step 6
    6

    Cool and break. Allow the brittle to cool completely, about 30 minutes. Once hardened, break it into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

  • Spicy Peanut Brittle – Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper with the baking soda for a sweet-and-spicy kick.
  • Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle before breaking it into pieces.
  • Try Different Nuts – Substitute roasted almonds, pecans, cashews, or mixed nuts for a delicious variation.
  • Add a Pinch of Salt – Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle just after pouring it onto the pan for a sweet-and-salty finish.
  • Store Properly – Keep the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crisp texture.
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