Soft Peanut Brittle
Soft Peanut Brittle is a classic candy that brings the perfect combination of sweet and salty. It is a delicious treat that is easy to make, and it is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you serve it during the holidays or simply enjoy it as a snack, this recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Soft Peanut Brittle at home is a delightful experience. You can control the ingredients and customize the texture to your liking. This recipe produces a soft, chewy version of the traditional brittle. It allows you to enjoy a beloved treat without the worry of overly hard candy. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with kids or friends!
How to Make Soft Peanut Brittle
Ingredients:
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water plus 2 teaspoons, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups peanuts, raw or roasted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions:
- Generously butter a large baking sheet and set it aside.
- In a double boiler over hot water, heat the peanut butter until melted.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Cook over high heat until it reaches 275°F on a candy thermometer.
- Lower the heat to medium, add the butter, and stir until melted.
- Add the peanuts and cook, stirring for about 5 minutes until the candy starts to turn brown and reaches 300°F.
- Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda dissolved in the remaining 2 teaspoons of water.
- Add the vanilla and fold in the warm peanut butter, stirring gently.
- Quickly pour the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it as thin as possible.
- Let the candy cool completely, then break it into serving-size pieces.
- Store in an airtight container.
How to Serve Soft Peanut Brittle
Soft Peanut Brittle is best enjoyed as a delightful snack. You can serve it in small bowls or on a platter during gatherings. It also makes a lovely gift when packaged in decorative tins or bags. Pair it with warm beverages like coffee or tea for a delicious treat.
How to Store Soft Peanut Brittle
To keep your Soft Peanut Brittle fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to keep it away from moisture, as humidity can make the candy sticky. If stored properly, it can last for several weeks.
Tips to Make Soft Peanut Brittle
- Make sure to measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.
- Be careful with the hot sugar mixture; use oven mitts to avoid burns.
- If you like a thicker brittle, pour the mixture slightly thicker onto the baking sheet.
- Experiment with adding flavors like cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt for a unique twist.
Variation
You can try adding other nuts, such as almonds or cashews, to change the flavor slightly. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-peanut combination!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your brittles a different texture and extra crunch!
How do I know when the sugar mixture is ready?
Using a candy thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy. It should reach 275°F when it’s ready to add the peanuts.
Can I use different types of sugar?
You can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but it may change the texture slightly.