Few treats capture the nostalgia and crunch of the Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy). This timeless favorite is all about golden shards laced with roasted peanuts, a sweet aroma wafting from the kitchen, and each bite snapping gently before melting into a caramelized finish. Whether you’re making this for holiday gifts or simply to stash in your own candy jar, you’ll find this recipe satisfies any craving for a classic, satisfying sweet—every batch brings a little old-fashioned magic right into your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) is in its simplicity. Every ingredient is essential for creating that signature shine, toasty flavor, and crave-worthy crunch. The better your basics, the better your brittle!
- Granulated Sugar: This is the main candy base, giving the brittle its gleaming, glassy appearance and signature snap.
- Light Corn Syrup: Prevents crystallization, keeps the texture smooth, and adds a gentle, subtle sweetness.
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar, ensuring an even cook and the perfect consistency.
- Raw or Dry Roasted Peanuts: Roasted or raw, these bring the essential earthy, nutty crunch that makes peanut brittle unforgettable.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich touch and helps round out the sweetness with luxurious flavor.
- Baking Soda: The secret to that light, crispy texture—just a sprinkle transforms the candy as it foams up.
- Vanilla Extract: Lends warmth and depth, balancing all the sweet and salty notes.
- Pinch of Salt: Lifts every other flavor, popping the sweetness and making the peanuts shine.
How to Make Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy)
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Ingredients
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, and get all your ingredients measured and ready. Peanut brittle comes together fast, so once you get going, you won’t have time to search your cupboards. Having everything prepped makes the entire candy-making process feel almost effortless.
Step 2: Boil the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves and you see the mixture start to bubble. Don’t rush this stage—it’s crucial for keeping your brittle clear and crisp. Watch as the clear syrup transforms and the aroma starts wafting through your kitchen.
Step 3: Add the Peanuts
Once the sugar syrup is bubbling, tip in your peanuts and keep stirring. The nuts will toast gently in the syrup, infusing every bite with flavor. Continue simmering and stirring often—the mixture will thicken and deepen in color. Using a candy thermometer, carefully monitor until it reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage) and is a beautiful golden amber.
Step 4: Stir in Flavor and Aerate
With the heat off, immediately add butter, baking soda, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. This is where the fun happens: the candy will foam up, the aroma turning rich and buttery. Stir briskly but gently, making sure everything is evenly combined—this step is what gives Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) its light, crispy snap.
Step 5: Pour and Shape the Brittle
Act fast! Pour the hot, foamy brittle onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a heatproof spatula, spread it out as thinly as you can. Don’t worry about perfect edges; the rustic look is part of the charm. Let it cool completely at room temperature so it sets up beautifully crisp.
Step 6: Break and Store
Once your brittle is fully cooled and hardened, crack it into pieces—uneven, jagged shards are what make it so delightful to share and nibble. Store the finished candy in an airtight container so every bite stays perfectly snappy.
How to Serve Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy)
Garnishes
Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) shines on its own, but for a special touch, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt right after pouring to the baking sheet or drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled. Either garnish enhances flavor and turns each piece into a gorgeous sweet bite.
Side Dishes
This candy pairs wonderfully with a cup of dark, strong coffee or espresso. For dessert platters, serve alongside dried fruits, homemade caramels, or a scattering of roasted nuts. The contrast of textures and flavors makes for an irresistible, eye-catching spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting, layer the brittle between parchment squares in a tin, or fill small cellophane bags tied with ribbon. On a dessert board, let jagged shards stand upright in a pretty jar. For an extra-special touch, tuck a few pieces into gift boxes during the holidays—every recipient will be delighted by this crunchy homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) fresh and crisp, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Moisture is the enemy, so avoid the fridge—just tuck it away in a cool, dry pantry spot. It will stay delicious for up to two weeks, making it perfect for both spontaneous snacking and planned indulgence.
Freezing
While traditionalists rarely freeze peanut brittle, you absolutely can if you want to make batches well in advance. Wrap brittle pieces tightly in parchment, then seal in a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready for a crunch, let it come to room temperature before opening the package to avoid condensation and stickiness.
Reheating
If your brittle ever loses some of its snap, you can briefly refresh it in a 250°F oven. Spread pieces on a lined baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes, then allow them to cool completely. This helps bring back some lost crispness—almost as if it’s just been made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts are the classic choice, you can swap in cashews, almonds, pecans, or even a mix for a twist on Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy). Just keep the overall quantity the same for perfect results.
Do I really need a candy thermometer?
Using a candy thermometer helps you nail the hard crack stage for that signature brittle snap. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a little syrup in cold water—the threads should break easily and feel hard, not bendy.
Why is my brittle sticky or chewy?
This usually happens if the sugar mixture didn’t quite reach 300°F, or if there’s humidity in the kitchen. Ensure you reach the hard crack stage and store your Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) somewhere dry and sealed tightly for that perfect crunch.
My brittle set up too quickly—what can I do?
Once you add the baking soda, the mixture will foam and set fast. Have your baking sheet ready and work quickly—there’s no going back, but with practice, you’ll master the timing and consistency.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes! Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) contains no gluten or animal products other than butter. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter. Always check your labels if strict dietary requirements are needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fill your kitchen with warmth, wonderful smells, and the irresistible sound of candy snapping, give this Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) recipe a try. It’s fun, fast, and truly captures what homemade treats are all about—sharing, savoring, and celebrating the simple joys. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested recipe for holidays and beyond!
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Best Peanut Brittle (Old-Fashioned Candy) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make the best old-fashioned peanut brittle candy at home with this easy recipe. This sweet and crunchy treat is perfect for the holidays or anytime you’re craving a classic peanut delight.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup raw or dry roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan, cook sugar, corn syrup, and water until boiling.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in peanuts until mixture reaches 300°F.
- Stir in Ingredients: Remove from heat, add butter, baking soda, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour and Cool: Spread hot mixture on the baking sheet, cool, and break into pieces.
Notes
- Have all ingredients ready before starting.
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate results.
- Variation: Substitute peanuts with cashews, almonds, or mixed nuts.
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