Okay, folks, let me tell you about something truly special. This isn’t just any old candy; this is Grandma Elsie’s peanut brittle recipe. I’m talking about the kind of peanut brittle that makes your eyes roll back in your head, the kind that’s both buttery and crunchy, salty and sweet – all at the same time. It’s way better than any store-bought stuff, trust me. Think of it like the gourmet version of a Snickers bar, only homemade with love (and a whole lot of butter!). I remember helping Grandma Elsie make this every Christmas, the whole house filled with the smell of roasting peanuts and caramelized sugar. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a memory. This peanut brittle recipe is so simple, even I can make it without burning the kitchen down!

What is peanut brittle?

So, what exactly *is* peanut brittle? It’s essentially a candy made from sugar and butter, cooked to a hard, brittle consistency, and studded with peanuts. Think of it as a sugary, nutty toffee, but with a distinctive snap. Some people add a touch of baking soda at the end to create a light, airy texture, giving it a nice “crack” when you bite into it. I’ve heard stories that it got its name because it’s so hard it can break your teeth (don’t worry, this peanut brittle recipe isn’t *that* hard!). It’s a classic treat that’s been around for ages, and for good reason – it’s absolutely addictive!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Let’s be real, there are tons of peanut brittle recipes out there. But this one? This one’s special. First off, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of buttery caramel and perfectly roasted peanuts is just heavenly. But what I really love about this peanut brittle recipe is how incredibly easy it is. Seriously, if I can do it, you can do it. It only requires a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. What’s more, it’s cost-effective – making your own candy is way cheaper than buying it at the store! And finally, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it as a snack, crumble it over Ice Cream, or even give it as a homemade gift. It’s always a crowd-pleaser. It makes the perfect holiday gift, especially for those hard-to-buy-for people! This peanut brittle recipe blows all the others out of the water. Seriously, try it once, and you’ll never buy store-bought again.

How do you make peanut brittle?

Quick Overview

Making this peanut brittle recipe is surprisingly straightforward. You basically cook sugar, corn syrup, and water until it reaches a specific temperature, then stir in butter, peanuts, and a touch of baking soda. Spread it out on a baking sheet, let it cool, and break it into pieces. The key is to use a candy thermometer and keep a close eye on the temperature. Don’t worry, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. This peanut brittle recipe is practically foolproof!

Ingredients

For the Peanut Brittle: What is the recipe?
* 1 cup granulated sugar – regular white sugar works best.
* 1/2 cup light corn syrup – This helps prevent crystallization and gives the brittle its smooth texture.
* 1/4 cup water – Just plain tap water will do.
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Make sure it’s real butter, not margarine, for the best flavor. I always use a good quality butter.
* 1 cup raw peanuts – I prefer to use raw peanuts and roast them myself, but you can also use roasted peanuts if you’re short on time. Make sure they are unsalted.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda – This is what gives the brittle its light, airy texture.
* 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor.
* Pinch of salt – Just a tiny bit to balance the sweetness.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Before you cook, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. How do I remove brittle from my skin? I always spray the parchment paper with a little bit of cooking spray just to be safe. What are some quick and easy peanut brittle recipes?

Step 2: Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water

In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. I always stir it with a wooden spoon – I don’t know why, it’s just what Grandma Elsie always did! What is the best way to make peanut brittle?

Step 3: Cook to Hard-Crack Stage

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Insert a candy thermometer and cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C), also known as the hard-crack stage. This can take a while, so be patient. The color should be a light amber. DO NOT STIR during this process. I repeat, DO NOT STIR. It will crystallize if you do!

Step 4: Add Butter and Peanuts

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract and peanuts. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up. Stir until the butter is melted and everything is evenly combined. Work quickly here, as the mixture will start to harden. What is the best peanut brittle recipe?

Step 5: Add Baking Soda

This is where the magic happens! Stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up and lighten in color. Stir quickly and thoroughly to distribute the baking soda evenly. This is what gives the brittle its characteristic airy texture. Be careful not to overstir, as this can cause the brittle to become too hard. This trick makes all the difference in this peanut brittle recipe.

Step 6: Pour and Spread

Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth – the imperfections add to the charm. Work quickly, as the brittle will start to set up fast.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the brittle cool completely before breaking it into pieces. What is the best way to do this? Don’t try to rush it – you want it to be completely hard before you break it. I always leave it on the counter to cool. The aroma while it cools is amazing!

Step 8: Break and Enjoy

Once the brittle is cool, break it into pieces. You can use your hands or a knife to do this. Is it safe to store in an airtight container at room temperature? What is Grandma Elsie’s famous peanut brittle recipe?

What should I serve it with?

What is a good peanut brittle recipe?

What is an afternoon treat?Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of brittle perfectly.

As Dessert:What’s a good dessert to serve over vanilla Ice Cream? I also like to add a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

For Gift Giving:Package it in a pretty tin or bag and give it as an homemade gift. What do you like about receiving homemade goodies? I always make extra during holidays just for this reason.

For a Snack:What is a good snack to satisfy your cravings? How can I stop myself at one piece?

My family always enjoys this recipe as a snack with ice cold milk. It’s really perfect anytime, and it always disappears quickly!

What are some tips for perfecting peanut brittle?

How do I make Grandma Elsie’s peanut brittle recipe? How can I perfect my writing?

How do you use a candy thermometer? This is essential for making sure the brittle reaches the correct temperature. Don’t try to guess – it’s not worth the risk. I’ve learned this the hard way!

Don’t stir while cooking: this is aOnce the sugar mixture starts to boil, don’t stir it. If sugar is stirred, it will crystallize, which will result in a grainy brittle. Just let it do its thing.

Work Quickly:Once you add baking soda, you need to work quickly. The mixture will start to set up fast, so you need to pour it onto a baking sheet and spread it out. Before it hardens, you can sque

Roast Your Own Peanuts: How do you roast yourRoasting your own peanuts will give them a richer, more intense flavor. To roast them, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If they are golden brown, cook for 15 minutes. Make sure to let them cool before adding them to the brittle.

Add a pinch of salt: 1 teaspoon per pound.What is the flavor of a brittle? I always add a little bit more than the recipe calls for – I like the salty-sweet combination.

Experiment with Flavors:Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Can you add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some chopped nuts? What are the endless possibilities in life? What is the best way to add Peanut Butter to a smoothie?

Don’t overcrowd the pan: If Make sure to spread the brittle out into a thin, even layer. If it’s too thick, it won’t be as brittle. I usually use a large baking sheet to avoid overcrowding.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to keep your peanut brittle recipe fresh:

Room Temperature: Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It will last for about 2-3 weeks. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the brittle from becoming sticky.

Refrigerator Storage: You can also store the brittle in the refrigerator, but it may become a bit sticky. To prevent this, wrap the brittle in parchment paper before placing it in an airtight container. It will last for about a month in the refrigerator.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the brittle. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Glaze Timing Advice: This peanut brittle recipe doesn’t call for a glaze, but I have heard some people add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. It’s definitely worth trying! If you do add chocolate, make sure to let it set completely before storing the brittle.

My trick is to always make a double batch, keep half in the fridge, and hide the other half in the back of the pantry where my husband can’t find it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – Grandma Elsie’s famous peanut brittle recipe. It’s a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, it’s delicious, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I love this recipe because it reminds me of my childhood and all the wonderful times I spent with my grandmother. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a memory. If you enjoyed this peanut brittle recipe, you might also like my recipe for homemade fudge or my recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking, everyone! And don’t forget to share your creations with me in the comments below. I can’t wait to see how yours turns out!