It began when i crunched on some spicy caramel mix and thought , why not add jalapeños to a classic snack . Mixing sweet brittle with a pepper punch sounds wild , but it works .
In this article i’ll show you step by step how to make this brittle yourself , with tips for tweaks and answers to common questions . Whether you wanna surprise guests or give a cool homemade gift , jalapeño peanut brittle will hit the spot .
History of Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle has been around for ages , tracing back to Europe where folks used nuts and sugar to make hard candies . When peanuts started growin’ big in the US South during the 1800s , the treat got its own American spin . Over the years people added chocolate , different nuts , and spices to make it new and exciting .
The idea to toss in spicy peppers came from chefs wanting bolder flavors . Jalapeños bring bright heat that lifts up the sweet sugar base . This mix of sweet and spicy isn’t just a fad , it’s part of a trend where opposite tastes play off each other .
Why Jalapeño Peanut Brittle?
The combo of sweet sugar and hot pepper is irresistible . The caramel layer gives a crunchy, rich taste , and the jalapeño gives a tingly burst . It’s a surprise in every bite that keeps people comin’ back for more .
Plus , there’s some good stuff in it . Peanuts are full of protein and healthy fats , while jalapeños have capsaicin which might help your metabolism . So you get a tasty snack that also has a few health perks .
Jalapeño peanut brittle works for parties , holidays , or just snack time . It’s great in a candy bowl , sparkin’ up drinks like margaritas , or wrapped as a fun gift .
Ingredients Needed
To whip up your own jalapeño peanut brittle , gather:
- Peanuts: Raw or roasted , unsalted peаnuts work best.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the right brittle texture.
- Corn syrup: Light corn syrup adds sweetness and stops it from crystаllizing.
- Butter: Unsalted butter boosts flavor and helps caramelize.
- Baking soda: Makes the brittle light and airy.
- Salt: A pinch balances sweetness.
- Jalapeño: Fresh chopped peppers or jalapeño powder for heat.
You can also try drizzling chocolate or swapping in other nuts for fun twists .
Detailed Recipe for Jalapeño Peanut Brittle
Preparation
Before you start , line a baking sheet with parchment and have a heavy pot , a heat-proof spatula , and a candy thermometer ready .
Ingredients
- 2 cups peаnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños , finely chopped , or 1 teaspoon jalapeño powder
Directions
- Cooking the Sugar Mixture: In the pot , mix sugar , corn syrup , and a splash of water . Stir on medium until sugar melts . Let it boil (no stirring) until it hits 300°F on your candy thermometer .
- Incorporating Peanuts: Stir in peаnuts and cook 3–5 more minutes , stirring steady until it reaches about 290°F .
- Adding Jalapeño: Take pot off heat and quickly stir in jalapeño and baking soda . The mix will puff up , so watch out .
- Finishing: Pour onto the baking sheet and spread with your spatula . Let it cool all the way .
- Breaking the Brittle: Once cool , crack it into pieces and store in an airtight container .
Advice for Perfecting Your Brittle
Always use a candy thermometer for the right temp . If it’s too mild , add more jalapeño ; if it’s too hot , use less next time . Keep it in a cool , dry spot so it stays crisp longer .
Variations of Jalapeño Peanut Brittle
Different Nuts to Consider
Swap peаnuts for almonds , pecans , or cashews . Each nut gives a new flavor and texture twist .
Varying the Spice Level
Use more fresh jalapeño for a big kick or just a dash of powder for milder heat . You can even add cayenne or other spices .
Chocolate Coating Option
For extra yum , melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over cooled brittle . Let it set before breaking .
Serving Suggestions
Jalapeño peanut brittle is awesome with cocktails like margaritas or whiskey drinks . Put it in pretty bowls at parties or wrap small packs as gifts .
Common Mistakes When Making Brittle
Don’t skip the candy thermometer , or you might end up with soft or burnt brittle . Stir enough so sugar cooks evenly , and use a heavy pan so heat spreads right .
FAQs
What is jalapeño peanut brittle?
It’s a snack that mixes crunchy sweet peanut brittle with hot jalapeño for a sweet-spicy treat .
How long does jalapeño peanut brittle last?
In an airtight container at room temp , it stays fresh for a few weeks and keeps its crunch .
Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
Yes . Almonds , cashews , or pecans work too ; they just change the taste and texture a bit .
What’s the best way to store brittle?
Store in an airtight container in a cool , dry place so it stays crisp .
How do I make it spicier?
Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat .
Can I use sugar substitutes for this recipe?
You could try stevia or erythritol , but they might change how the brittle sets and tastes .
What do I do if my brittle doesn't harden?
It probably didn’t hit the right temp . Put it back on heat and cook until it reaches hard crack stage before pouring .
Conclusion
Jalapeño peanut brittle is a bold mix of sweet and spicy that’s fun to make and share . Give it a shot , tweak the spice , and enjoy a snack that’s anything but ordinary .
Jalapeño Peanut Brittle
Equipment
- 1 Candy thermometer
- 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- 1 Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts about 150 g
- 1 cup granulated sugar about 200 g
- ¼ cup light corn syrup about 60 ml
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1-2 jalapeños jalapeños, finely chopped for a medium level of heat, adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter about 30 g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat without stirring until it reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) on the candy thermometer.
- While the sugar mixture is cooking, prepare the jalapeños. Remove the seeds and stem, then finely chop the peppers.
- Once the sugar mixture reaches 300°F, quickly stir in the peanuts, chopped jalapeños, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
- Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
