If you love crunchy, sweet treats, this OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle Recipe is perfect for you. It is a classic candy that melts in your mouth and has a satisfying crunch.
Making peanut brittle at home may sound hard, but it is easier than you think. With the right steps and ingredients, you can make a candy that tastes just like the one from stores.
This blog will show you how to make OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle with simple instructions and tips. You will also learn all the tricks to get it crispy and full of flavor.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried making OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle on a quiet weekend. At first, I was nervous about handling hot sugar. But step by step, I followed the recipe and it turned out perfect.
The peanut flavor was rich and the candy had a great crunch. I shared it with my family, and everyone loved it. This recipe gives a sweet memory of old candy shops and is fun to make at home. It is perfect for holidays, gifts or just enjoying a little treat.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle
- Servings: 10–12
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You Need for OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup raw peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Keep it ready near your stove. - Mix Sugar and Syrup
In a saucepan, add sugar, corn syrup and water. Stir gently. - Cook the Mixture
Heat on medium. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. - Add Peanuts
Stir in raw peanuts. Keep cooking until mixture reaches 300°F. - Check Temperature
Use a candy thermometer. The mixture must reach hard crack stage. - Remove From Heat
Take the pan off the stove immediately. Prevent burning. - Add Butter and Vanilla
Quickly stir in butter and vanilla. Mix until smooth. - Add Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda. Stir fast. It will foam a little. - Pour on Sheet
Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly. - Cool Completely
Leave the brittle to cool. It will harden in 20–30 minutes. - Break Into Pieces
Once cool, break the brittle into small pieces with hands.
Tips to Make the Best OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle
- Use a candy thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning sugar.
- Work quickly after adding baking soda.
- Line baking sheet with silicone mat for easy removal.
- Store in a cool, dry place to keep crisp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking sugar too slowly or too fast.
- Not using a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Leaving candy on heat after reaching hard crack.
- Forgetting to stir peanuts evenly.
- Adding baking soda too late or too early.
Serving Suggestions
Serve OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle in a bowl as a sweet snack. You can also package it in jars as gifts. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
For parties, put pieces in small cellophane bags and tie with ribbon. It adds charm and a homemade touch to any celebration.
Variations You Can Try
- Use almonds or cashews instead of peanuts.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled brittle.
- Mix in sesame seeds for extra crunch.
- Use honey instead of corn syrup for a natural twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Keep away from humidity to maintain crispness.
- Do not refrigerate; moisture will soften brittle.
- Reheat in a low oven to slightly soften for shaping.
- Best eaten within 2 weeks for peak freshness.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
Health Benefits
Peanuts are a good source of protein, healthy fats and antioxidants. They may help heart health and provide energy. OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle should be enjoyed in moderation due to sugar content.
It gives a quick energy boost and satisfies sweet cravings naturally. Homemade versions allow control over ingredients and freshness.
OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup raw peanuts
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Keep it ready near your stove.
Mix Sugar and Syrup
- In a saucepan, add sugar, corn syrup and water. Stir gently.
Cook the Mixture
- Heat on medium. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
Add Peanuts
- Stir in raw peanuts. Keep cooking until mixture reaches 300°F.
Check Temperature
- Use a candy thermometer. The mixture must reach hard crack stage.
Remove From Heat
- Take the pan off the stove immediately. Prevent burning.
Add Butter and Vanilla
- Quickly stir in butter and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Add Baking Soda
- Sprinkle baking soda. Stir fast. It will foam a little.
Pour on Sheet
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly.
Cool Completely
- Leave the brittle to cool. It will harden in 20–30 minutes.
Break Into Pieces
- Once cool, break the brittle into small pieces with hands.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning sugar.
- Work quickly after adding baking soda.
- Line baking sheet with silicone mat for easy removal.
- Store in a cool, dry place to keep crisp.
FAQs about OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle
Q1: Can I use roasted peanuts instead of raw peanuts?
Yes, you can. Raw peanuts give more traditional flavor, but roasted works fine.
Q2: How do I know when sugar reaches hard crack stage?
Use a candy thermometer. The temperature must be 300°F for perfect brittle.
Q3: Can I make peanut brittle without corn syrup?
Yes, substitute with honey or golden syrup. Texture may be slightly different.
Q4: Why did my brittle turn soft?
Moisture or undercooking causes softness. Ensure proper temperature and dry storage.
Q5: How long can I store peanut brittle?
Store in airtight container for up to two weeks. Keep it away from heat and moisture.
Final Thoughts
Making OLD FASHIONED Peanut Brittle is fun and rewarding. The process is simple when you follow steps carefully. Homemade brittle tastes fresh, crunchy and sweet.
It is perfect for gifts, snacks or sharing with family. Try this recipe, and you will enjoy a delicious candy that feels like a timeless treat.
With these tips, ingredients and variations, anyone can master this classic sweet. Enjoy making and eating your crunchy creation today!
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!