Peanut Brittle
Crisp, buttery sheets of caramelized candy studded with roasted peanuts. This nostalgic American confection brings a satisfying crackle followed by a deeply nutty, toasty flavor. The magic is in how baking soda foams the hot sugar syrup, making it light and porous so each bite shatters beautifully instead of chipping a tooth.
For 12 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Prepare the baking sheet.
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Butter the parchment lightly or use a silicone mat. Set it near the stove so it is ready the moment the candy is done.
TIPHave all ingredients measured and ready before you start—the final steps move fast. - boil · ~5 min
Boil sugar, corn syrup, and water.
1.Combine white sugar, light corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.2.Clip the candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure the bulb does not touch the bottom.3.Set over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes).4.Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil.TIPDo not stir once the syrup boils—it can cause crystallization and makes the brittle grainy. - boil · ~12 min
Cook the syrup to 240°F and add peanuts.
1.Let the syrup boil undisturbed until the candy thermometer reads 240°F (soft-ball stage).2.Add the raw peanuts and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula.3.The temperature will dip briefly; continue cooking and stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage).TIPStirring constantly at this stage keeps the peanuts from burning and ensures even toasting. - mix · ~1 min
Remove from heat and add butter, vanilla, and baking soda.
1.Immediately pull the pan off the heat when it hits 300°F.2.Quickly stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter melts completely.3.Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the top and stir vigorously.TIPThe baking soda will foam the mixture and turn it opaque—this is exactly what you want for a crisp, airy brittle. - assemble · ~1 min
Pour and spread the brittle.
Pour the foamy hot candy onto the prepared baking sheet in one steady stream. With a buttered spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread it into an even layer about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Work quickly; the candy sets in under a minute.
TIPAvoid pressing too hard or compacting the candy—keeping the air bubbles intact gives it that irresistible shatter. - rest · ~30 min
Cool the brittle completely.
Let the peanut brittle sit undisturbed at room temperature until fully cooled and hardened, about 30 minutes. Once set, peel away the parchment paper and break the slab into irregular shards by hand.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
- 2Have all ingredients measured before you start — the final steps move fast.
- 3Do not stir the syrup once it boils to avoid sugar crystallization and graininess.
- 4Stir constantly after adding peanuts to toast them evenly without burning.
- 5Work quickly when spreading the brittle; it sets in under a minute.
- 6Store peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- 7For extra crunch, use dry-roasted peanuts instead of raw ones.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Chili-Lime
Add 1/2 teaspoon chili powder and zest of 1 lime along with the baking soda. The heat and citrus cut the sweetness and add a savory-sour kick.
Chocolate DrizzleChocolate Drizzle
Melt 1/2 cup dark chocolate and drizzle over the cooled brittle. Let set for an indulgent chocolate-nut crunch.
Salted CaramelSalted Caramel
Use 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt instead of a pinch of salt, sprinkled on top just after pouring. The salt crystals create a sweet-salty contrast in every bite.
Mixed NutMixed Nut
Replace half the peanuts with cashews, almonds, or pecans. The varied textures and flavors make a more complex confection.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Protein
Peanuts provide plant-based protein, supporting muscle repair and keeping you fuller longer.
Contains Healthy Fats
Peanuts are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy when eaten in moderation.
Provides Vitamin E
Peanuts contribute vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
Mineral Boost from Peanuts
Peanuts supply magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, important for bone health and nerve function.
Frequently asked questions
Chewiness usually means the syrup didn't reach 300°F (hard-crack stage), so there's too much moisture left. Use an accurate candy thermometer and cook to exactly 300°F.
