Crunchy Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe Like Grandma’s

Sweet memories of childhood crackle through this classic old fashioned peanut brittle recipe that connects generations with its simple, irresistible charm.

Crisp golden shards of caramelized sugar and perfectly roasted peanuts create a nostalgic treat that dances between sweet and nutty flavors.

Crafted with just a few pantry staples, this confection requires nothing more than patience and precise timing.

Generations of home cooks have passed down this delightful recipe, turning a handful of ingredients into a beloved holiday tradition.

The process transforms ordinary sugar and peanuts into a delicate, amber-hued delicacy that shatters with a satisfying crunch.

Each bite carries the warmth of homemade comfort and the rich, toasted essence of perfectly caramelized nuts.

Dive into this timeless recipe and savor a piece of culinary heritage that never goes out of style.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 150 kcal

Servings: 11

What’s In Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Provides a non-stick surface for easy candy cooling and removal.
• Butter or Non-Stick Spray: Creates extra insurance against sticking and adds subtle richness.

• Granulated Sugar: Delivers the classic sweet backbone of traditional brittle.
• Light Corn Syrup: Prevents sugar crystallization and ensures smooth, glossy texture.
• Water: Helps dissolve sugar and create initial syrup consistency.

• Raw Peanuts: Brings nutty, earthy crunch and protein-rich element to the classic candy.
• Baking Soda: Creates signature airy, honeycomb-like texture when added at end of cooking.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness of candy.

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps prevent burning during final stages of cooking.
• Vanilla Extract: Introduces warm, aromatic depth to the traditional brittle flavor.

Tools To Help Make Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Large Baking Sheet: Essential for spreading and cooling the brittle evenly.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Butter or Non-Stick Spray: Helps release the brittle smoothly from the surface.
• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Provides even heat distribution for melting sugar without burning.
• Candy Thermometer: Crucial for achieving the perfect temperature and texture.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Helps stir the sugar mixture safely and effectively.
• Wire Rack: Optional for cooling the brittle quickly and evenly.

How To Cook Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Right

• Preparation Surface

Create a smooth landing zone for your sweet treat by laying out a parchment-lined baking sheet. A quick spritz of cooking spray or gentle butter coating will help your brittle release effortlessly later.

• Sugar Transformation

Pour granulated sugar into a heavy-bottomed pan, letting it melt and transform into a golden liquid landscape. Watch carefully as the sugar begins to bubble and shift from white to amber, signaling the magical moment of caramelization.

• Nutty Addition

When the sugar reaches a rich copper tone, sprinkle in your favorite roasted nuts. Peanuts work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with almonds or cashews for a personal twist.

• Temperature Precision

Continue cooking until the mixture turns a deep amber color and reaches that perfect candy stage. A candy thermometer helps, but experienced cooks can also rely on visual and aroma cues.

• Quick Spread

Swiftly pour the molten mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it thin, creating a delicate, crispy canvas of sweet, nutty goodness.

• Cooling Moment

Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. As it sets, it will develop a satisfying crackle and snap that makes this treat irresistible.

• Breaking Celebration

Once fully cooled, break the brittle into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container and enjoy your homemade confection within a week.

Tips For A Better Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Sweet Success Technique: Achieve perfectly crisp brittle by using a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, aiming for the hard-crack stage at exactly 300°F to guarantee that satisfying snap.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare peanut brittle up to two weeks in advance, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature between layers of wax paper to maintain its delightful crunch.
• Nutty Alternatives: Swap traditional peanuts with almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts to create exciting flavor variations that'll surprise and delight taste buds while keeping the classic brittle texture.
• Dietary Friendly Hack: Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and use alternative sugars like coconut sugar for those watching their refined sugar intake.
• Low-Sugar Twist: Reduce overall sugar content by using a sugar substitute or cutting the sugar by one-third, which can help make this classic treat slightly healthier without compromising its signature crackly texture.

Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Serving Tips

• Festive Holiday Gift Wrap: Package cooled peanut brittle in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for a homemade sweet treat perfect for Christmas or birthday gifts.
• Nutty Dessert Topping: Crush peanut brittle into small pieces and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream, chocolate pudding, or yogurt for an added crunch and caramel flavor.
• Charcuterie Board Accent: Arrange broken peanut brittle pieces alongside cheese, fruits, and nuts on a decorative board for an elegant and unexpected sweet-savory appetizer element.
• Party Snack Platter: Set out peanut brittle alongside other candies and treats at gatherings, creating a nostalgic dessert station that brings back childhood memories of homemade sweets.

Best Storage Ideas For Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle

• Quick Cool-Down Strategy: Spread the hot brittle mixture immediately on the prepared baking sheet, allowing it to rapidly cool and harden at room temperature for optimal texture and crispness.
• Airtight Storage Solution: Keep the cooled brittle in a sealed glass container with a tight-fitting lid, placing a layer of parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking and maintain crunchiness.
• Moisture Protection Tip: Store the brittle in a completely dry environment away from humidity, which can make the candy soft and less enjoyable, ideal spots include pantry shelves or kitchen cabinets.
• Freezing Longevity Hack: Wrap individual pieces or the entire batch in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container to extend shelf life up to 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Crunchy Peanut Brittle Recipe

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4.9 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 11 1x

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Description

Delightful homemade old fashioned peanut brittle recipe delivers classic Southern sweet crunch with simple pantry ingredients. Crisp golden confection combines sugar, corn syrup, and roasted peanuts for nostalgic candy perfection you’ll crave.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups (200 g/7 oz) dry roasted peanuts (unsalted)
• 1 cup (200 g/7 oz) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 ml/4 fl oz) light corn syrup
• ¼ cup (60 ml/2 fl oz) water
• 2 tbsps (30 g/1 oz) unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking soda

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Instructions

1. Workspace Preparation: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat, lightly coating the surface with butter to facilitate easy candy release.
2. Sugar Transformation: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup, heating gradually while stirring to create a smooth, golden caramel base, carefully monitoring temperature with a candy thermometer until reaching the hard-crack stage.
3. Peanut Integration: Once the caramel achieves a rich amber color, swiftly fold roasted peanuts into the molten mixture, ensuring rapid and even distribution to prevent potential burning.
4. Candy Casting: Quickly pour the blazing hot caramel onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to spread into a gossamer-thin, uniform layer that promises a delicate, crisp texture.
5. Cooling and Setting: Allow the brittle to rest undisturbed at room temperature, permitting complete solidification without manipulation, which could compromise its structural integrity.
6. Fracturing and Storing: Once fully hardened, gently fragment the brittle into rustic, irregular pieces using the back of a heavy utensil, then transfer to an airtight container to maintain its characteristic crispness and protect against moisture infiltration.

Notes

• Prepare Tools Safely: Use heavy-bottomed saucepan and long-handled wooden spoon to protect hands from hot sugar splatter.
• Control Sugar Temperature: Watch candy thermometer closely; slight temperature variation can turn brittle into burnt sugar or chewy mess.
• Roast Peanuts Perfectly: Toast peanuts beforehand for enhanced nutty flavor and crispier texture, ensuring even caramelization.
• Handle Hot Caramel Carefully: Work quickly when pouring molten sugar to prevent crystallization and maintain smooth, glossy finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 11
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg