Golden, nutty, and perfectly crisp — this Quick Peanut Brittle is the classic holiday candy everyone loves. Made in under 30 minutes with just a saucepan and a baking sheet, it delivers that irresistible sweet crunch without a candy thermometer.
Tested twice: The secret to glossy, breakable peanut brittle is heating the sugar until a deep amber stage, then adding baking soda for the perfect airy texture. No sticky or chewy mess — just golden, crunchy perfection.
At a Glance
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 1½ pounds (serves 10–12 pieces)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) light corn syrup or honey
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water
- 1 cup (150 g) roasted unsalted peanuts
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Swaps & Notes
| Need | Swap | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-free | Use refined coconut oil | Adds light tropical flavor, still crisp |
| Gluten-free | Naturally gluten-free | Ensure peanuts are plain, not flavored |
| Vegan | Use vegan butter and maple syrup | Slightly darker color, softens faster |
| No corn syrup | Replace with honey | Flavor deepens; stir more often to prevent crystallization |
| Nut-free | Use roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds | Great for allergy-friendly gifting |
| No thermometer | Use color cue — golden amber | Ready when bubbling slows and turns deep gold |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep your tools.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. Measure all ingredients in advance — brittle moves fast once hot.
2. Cook the sugar syrup.
In a medium heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture begins to boil. Stop stirring and let it bubble until the color turns golden amber (about 10–12 minutes).
3. Finish and pour.
Quickly stir in butter and vanilla; mixture will foam. Remove from heat and immediately add baking soda — stir just until foamy and evenly combined. Fold in peanuts.
Pour the hot mixture onto prepared pan and tilt gently to spread thin. Do not press or stir. Cool completely (about 30 minutes), then break into pieces.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Perfect crunch: Don’t over-stir once boiling; agitation causes sugar to crystallize.
- No thermometer needed: Watch for deep amber color and slightly slower bubbling.
- Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or chili flakes for a grown-up kick.
- Nut variations: Try cashews, almonds, or mixed nuts — keep total volume to 1 cup.
- Gift idea: Wrap brittle in clear cellophane bags or metal tins with parchment layers.
- Glossy finish: Adding butter at the end keeps brittle shiny and less sticky.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on dessert platters during holidays or bake sales.
- Crush over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping.
- Pack as edible gifts in jars or tins.
- Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
Freeze: Freeze in zip bags up to 3 months; thaw uncovered to keep crisp.
Re-crisp: If it softens, warm in 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
Food Safety: Keep dry and airtight — moisture causes stickiness.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Sticky or chewy brittle | Cook syrup a bit longer; it didn’t reach hard crack stage |
| Bitter flavor | Sugar overheated — remove from heat sooner next time |
| Grainy texture | Sugar crystallized — avoid stirring after syrup boils |
| Soft spots | Spread brittle thinly and cool completely before storing |
FAQs
Q1: Can I make peanut brittle without corn syrup?
Yes. Substitute honey or maple syrup — just stir gently and cook slightly shorter to prevent overbrowning.
Q2: How do I know when peanut brittle is done without a thermometer?
Look for a deep golden color and slower bubbling. A drop in cold water should snap, not bend.
Q3: Why did my brittle turn sticky after a few days?
Moisture is the culprit. Store airtight in a cool, dry place and avoid humid conditions.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 190 | Carbs: 28 g | Fat: 8 g | Sugars: 24 g | Protein: 4 g