Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a ridiculously easy yet incredibly delicious treat? Then look no further! This fluffy peanut brittle recipe is your ticket to homemade candy perfection. Forget those store-bought versions – this recipe delivers a light, airy texture and a perfectly balanced sweet and salty flavor that will leave you craving more. It's a fantastic addition to your holiday baking repertoire or a delightful surprise for any occasion. Let's get started on this simple and rewarding journey into the world of homemade candy-making!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts (roasted and salted preferred)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon butter, unsalted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
Equipment:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan (at least 2 quarts)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Candy thermometer (highly recommended for perfect consistency)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Combine ingredients: In your heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
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Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir the mixture once it starts to heat up. Using a candy thermometer, cook the mixture until it reaches 300°F (149°C) – the hard-crack stage. This is crucial for the right texture. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water; it should form a hard, brittle ball.
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Add peanuts and butter: Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the roasted peanuts and butter. The butter will help create a smoother, less grainy texture.
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Add baking soda: Carefully stir in the baking soda. This will cause the mixture to foam up slightly, creating that signature fluffy texture. Be careful as it will bubble vigorously!
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Add vanilla (optional): Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
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Pour and spread: Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly to your desired thickness using a spatula or spoon. Work quickly as it will begin to harden rapidly.
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Cool and break: Allow the brittle to cool completely. Once cooled and hardened, break it into irregular pieces. This is the fun part!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Peanut Brittle:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This prevents scorching and ensures even heating.
- Don't stir after the sugar dissolves: Stirring after the initial dissolving can cause crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer: This is essential for achieving the correct hard-crack stage.
- Work quickly: The mixture hardens rapidly once removed from the heat.
- Store properly: Store your brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Brittle: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled brittle.
- Spicy Peanut Brittle: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Nut Variations: Substitute peanuts with other nuts like cashews, almonds, or pecans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. A general estimate would be around 150-200 calories, with varying amounts of fat, sugar, and protein depending on the nuts and added ingredients. It’s best to use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredient amounts for a more precise estimate.
This fluffy peanut brittle recipe is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes. It’s a fun project for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering quick dinner ideas (as a dessert, of course!) and healthy meals (in moderation!). Enjoy this delightful treat and impress your friends and family with your newfound candy-making skills!