Name: Homemade Peanut Brittle – Easy, Sweet Crunch for Gifting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 2 cups sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 2 cups salted roasted peanuts (can substitute with unsalted); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Do not skip this); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (can use margarine); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

The sweet aroma of caramelizing sugar wafting through the kitchen can transport me back in time, evoking the cozy warmth of holiday gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Stovetop Peanut Brittle recipe, a delightful treat that brings a classic Americana twist right to your home. With just seven easy-to-find ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep time, this sweet-and-salty masterpiece is perfect for gifting or enjoying with your favorite cup of tea. Imagine indulging in a crunchy bite that captures the nostalgia of simpler times while impressing friends and family with your culinary skills. Are you ready to add a dash of cheer to your holiday season? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!

Why is Peanut Brittle So Irresistible?

Nostalgic Flavor: This easy stovetop recipe captures the essence of traditional holiday treats, reminding you of grandma’s kitchen and festive gatherings.
Quick & Simple: With just seven ingredients, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy hosts.
Gift-Worthy Treat: Packaged up, this brittle makes a thoughtful holiday gift that your friends and family will love, perfect for cookie trays or care packages.
Versatile Crunch: Feel free to experiment with nuts – swap peanuts for almonds or cashews to find your favorite flavor combination. Enjoy this delight while sipping on your favorite drink, similar to my Peanut Butter Blossoms for an amazing holiday spread!
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich, sweet, and just the right crunch, it’s hard to resist reaching for another piece—an instant hit at any gathering!

Peanut Brittle Ingredients

• Get ready to craft your holiday treat!

For the Brittle

Sugar – Creates the signature sweetness and structure essential for your peanut brittle.
Light Corn Syrup – Prevents crystallization, ensuring a smooth, chewy texture that enhances the crunch.
Water – Helps dissolve the sugar, making for a seamless cooking process.
Salted Roasted Peanuts – Adds flavor and that delightful crunch; swapping in unsalted peanuts works just as well for a milder taste.
Baking Soda – This key ingredient generates air pockets for perfect crispiness; it’s best not to skip it.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and prevents sticking; margarine can be a suitable alternative if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Optional for an extra layer of flavor; feel free to simplify if you’re in a hurry!

Prepare these ingredients and let your kitchen fill with the magical aroma of homemade peanut brittle!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Stovetop Peanut Brittle

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, ensuring it’s well-greased with butter to prevent sticking. This step is straightforward but crucial as it creates a non-stick surface for your peanut brittle once it’s poured.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix together the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and attach a candy thermometer to the side. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar, creating a smooth mixture that will soon come to a delightful boil.

Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, add in the salted roasted peanuts and continue to cook while stirring constantly. Keep an eye on the thermometer; you need to heat the mixture until it reaches 300°F (150°C), also known as the hard crack stage. This process will take about 10-15 minutes, and you’ll notice the color deepening.

Step 4: Add the Final Ingredients
When the temperature hits 300°F, promptly remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully stir in the unsalted butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Be cautious of the bubbling reaction as the baking soda is added—this step enhances the texture of your peanut brittle, making it light and crunchy.

Step 5: Pour and Spread the Brittle
Quickly pour the hot peanut mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, allowing it to spread naturally. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently tilt and spread it into an even layer, ensuring that all the peanuts are well-distributed for balanced crunch in every bite.

Step 6: Cool and Break
Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature for about 1-2 hours until it hardens. Once set, gently break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a knife. This easy stovetop peanut brittle will be crisp and ready to enjoy or package up as thoughtful gifts!

Peanut Brittle Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this classic treat your own with a few simple twists and tweaks!

Nut Swap: Replace peanuts with almonds or cashews for a new flavor profile. Each nut adds its own unique crunch and taste.
Dairy-Free: Use margarine or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a plant-based version. This ensures everyone can enjoy the treat, no matter their dietary needs.
Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before it cools for an extra savory kick. The contrast between the sweet brittle and salty finish is simply irresistible!
Chocolate Drizzle: Once the brittle has cooled, drizzle some melted chocolate over it for a deliciously decadent touch. This delightful addition transforms your treat into a gourmet dessert.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for these who appreciate a bit of heat! The spice will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Vanilla Variance: Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a bold flavor change. It’s a great way to surprise your guests with your creativity!
Festive Add-ins: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or cherries during the final mixing stage for a sweet-tart contrast that brings out holiday cheer.
Coconut Flakes: Mix in toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist that lights up your flavor experience. This variation pairs well with many festive occasions.

Make your peanut brittle unforgettable and give these fun variations a try! Also, check out my recipe for Peanut Butter Blossoms for another delightful sweet treat to add to your holiday collection.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peanut Brittle

Use a Heavy Pan: Ensuring you have a heavy-bottomed saucepan is key; it helps distribute heat evenly, preventing any burning during the cooking process.
Watch the Temperature: Keep a close eye on your candy thermometer; undercooking it below 300°F may result in chewy brittle instead of the desired crunch.
Avoid Refrigeration: Storing your peanut brittle in the fridge introduces moisture, which can ruin its crispy texture. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature instead.
Cool Completely: Allow the peanut brittle to cool thoroughly before breaking it apart. This ensures the perfect crispiness that allows for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Be Cautious with Stirring: When adding baking soda and butter, stir carefully as the mixture will bubble up; avoid any spills that could cause burns.
Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute peanuts for almonds or cashews for a unique twist on this classic peanut brittle.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Stovetop Peanut Brittle pieces are perfect for meal prep, especially during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the entire recipe ahead of time and store the cooled pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6-8 weeks. If you prefer to break the brittle into pieces later, make the mixture and let it cool in the pan, then wrap it tightly (do not refrigerate as this alters texture). When you’re ready to serve or gift, simply break it into desired sizes, and you’ll have the same delightful crunch and flavor as when it was freshly made. Embrace the joy of prepping in advance; your future self will thank you!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Brittle

Room Temperature: Keep your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6-8 weeks; this preserves its crunchy texture perfectly.

Refrigeration: Avoid refrigerating peanut brittle as moisture can spoil the wonderful crispness; room temperature is ideal for storage.

Freezer: If you want to extend its life, freeze completely cool pieces in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Breaking into Pieces: When ready to store or freeze, break the peanut brittle into desired pieces, making it easier to indulge in just the right amount whenever the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Easy Stovetop Peanut Brittle?

This delightful treat makes for a memorable holiday experience when paired with the right accompaniments. Get ready to expand your festive table!

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate perfectly contrasts the crunchy, sweet-and-salty peanut brittle, creating a cozy duo for holiday gatherings.
Spiced Mulled Cider: Warm and aromatic, spiced mulled cider offers a fragrant complement to peanut brittle’s sweetness, making it an ideal drink for chilly evenings.
Classic Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee enhances the nutty flavors of peanut brittle while providing a satisfying bitter balance to the sweetness.
Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies bring a festive warmth and chewy texture, harmonizing with the crunchy brittle for a delightful holiday treat platter.
Homemade Eggnog: The creamy, spiced flavors of eggnog create an indulgent pairing that elevates your peanut brittle to new levels of holiday cheer.
Sweet Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples, pears, or pomegranates add a refreshing, juicy element that brightens the palate amidst the sweetness of peanut brittle.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels paired with rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast, making your dessert spread more interesting.
Classic Tea Varieties: Whether herbal or black, a comforting cup of tea can enhance a relaxing experience while enjoying your homemade peanut brittle.
Nutty Ice Cream: A scoop of nutty ice cream, like pistachio or macadamia, complements the peanut flavors, rounding out a simple yet elegant dessert.

Peanut Brittle Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the best peanuts for my peanut brittle?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for salted roasted peanuts—they add a delightful crunch and savory touch. When selecting nuts, look for those that are fresh, avoiding any with signs of spoilage like dark spots or rancid smells. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to choose unsalted roasted peanuts instead, and you can adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly.

How should I store my peanut brittle?
Very importantly, store your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for 6-8 weeks. Keeping it away from moisture is key, so avoid placing it in the fridge, as that can lead to a chewy texture instead of the desired crispiness.

Can I freeze peanut brittle, and if so, how?
Yes, freezing peanut brittle is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life! To freeze, first ensure the pieces are completely cool. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer the pieces into an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my peanut brittle is too chewy?
If your peanut brittle turns out chewy, it’s most likely because it didn’t reach the critical 300°F temperature during cooking. In future batches, keep a close eye on your candy thermometer—getting it to the hard crack stage is essential for that perfect crunch. You might also try using a heavy-bottomed pot to retain an even temperature while cooking.

Is this peanut brittle safe for pets?
It’s best to keep peanut brittle away from pets. While peanuts can be fine in moderation for dogs, the sugar and corn syrup used in peanut brittle can be harmful. Additionally, the high sugar content isn’t suitable for pets, and chocolate variations can be toxic. Always ensure that such treats are stored safely out of their reach!