Are you craving a crunchy, sweet treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Forget complicated candy thermometers and fussy recipes! This easy peanut brittle recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned bakers alike. It delivers that irresistible homemade crunch and nutty flavor without the need for specialized equipment. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and surprisingly simple dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup unsalted peanuts (or your favorite nut!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray – this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Making the Brittle:
- In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan (stainless steel or non-stick works best), combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Don't stir excessively once it starts to boil.
- Once boiling, continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches the "hard-crack" stage. This is typically when a small amount of the mixture dropped into a glass of ice water forms a hard, brittle candy. We'll determine this visually below!
- Visual Guide to Hard-Crack Stage: As the mixture cooks, it will change color and consistency. Initially, it will be clear, then amber, and finally a rich golden brown. Watch closely – the transition happens quickly. When the mixture turns a deep golden amber color, it’s likely nearing the hard-crack stage. A small amount dropped in ice water should snap cleanly – not bend.
Adding the Nuts and Finishing Touches:
- Once you reach the golden amber color and the hard-crack test is successful, remove the pan from the heat. Immediately stir in the butter, baking soda, and salt. The baking soda will cause the mixture to foam up a little – that's normal!
- Quickly stir in the peanuts, making sure they're evenly distributed.
- Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Work quickly; the mixture will start to harden rapidly.
- Use a buttered spatula or spoon to spread the brittle into a thin, even layer.
- Let the brittle cool completely and harden before breaking it into pieces. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Brittle:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps to prevent burning and ensures even cooking.
- Don't stir constantly: Once the mixture boils, minimize stirring to avoid crystallization.
- Work quickly: The mixture hardens fast, so be prepared to pour and spread it quickly.
- Grease the parchment paper well: This is essential for easy removal.
Variations:
- Add other nuts: Try almonds, cashews, or pecans instead of peanuts, or create a mix!
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm flavor.
- Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the brittle for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary depending on how you break the brittle, but a general estimate per 1 ounce serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This is a delicious and easy homemade cooking recipe, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a satisfying healthy meal addition. It also makes a great gift! Enjoy your homemade peanut brittle!