Easy Peanut Brittle

There’s something truly magical about old-fashioned recipes, and easy homemade Peanut Brittle is no exception. This delightful, crunchy candy is a beloved holiday treat, yet its simplicity makes it perfect for enjoying all year round. With just six basic ingredients and a quick stovetop preparation, it’s a sweet reminder of cherished family traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Only six ingredients are needed, all of which are likely already in your pantry.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just minutes using your microwave.
• Long-lasting: Once made, peanut brittle can be stored at room temperature for weeks.
• Nostalgic Treat: A classic, old-fashioned candy that brings back fond memories.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Butter or non-stick spray
• Cookie sheet
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup salted peanuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the light corn syrup and sugar together.
2. Microwave the mixture on high for 4 minutes.
3. Add the salted peanuts to the bowl, then microwave for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda carefully, as the mixture will be extremely hot and may foam up.
5. Pour the hot mixture onto a buttered cookie sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Allow the brittle to cool completely, then break it into pieces.

Tips for Success

• Use a large enough bowl to prevent overflow when the mixture foams.
• Be cautious when handling hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.
• Work quickly when spreading the brittle, as it hardens fast.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a spicy twist.
• For a nutty variation, substitute the peanuts with cashews or almonds.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 150 | Fat: 7g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use unsalted peanuts? Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt for flavor balance.

How should I store the peanut brittle? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I make this on the stovetop? Yes, simply use a saucepan instead of the microwave and follow similar steps over medium heat.

Conclusion

Easy Peanut Brittle is a delightful treat that captures the spirit of nostalgic holiday traditions. Its sweet crunch and nutty goodness are sure to win over family and friends. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you. We’d love to hear your stories and any creative twists you added!