Some years ago folks started making sоft peаnut brittle and it turned out to be a neat spin on the usual crunchy sweet treat . You just need peanuts , sugar and syrup but instead of cooking it till it snaps you stop earlier . That way the candy stays a bit chewy and it melts in your mouth . You still taste that deep peanut flavor but its feels smoother and many people prefer it .
What makes sоft peаnut brittle different is all in the cooking style . Traditional brittle cooks at high heat , making it hard and brittle . But for this version you use medium heat and watch the timing , so it does not get too stiff . This article is gonna show you step by step how to get the right texture every time .
We will talk about where peanut brittle came from , why soft and classic are not the same thing , and why you want to make it at home . Plus there is a simple recipe with tips to help you nail it . Perfect if you wanna snack , impress friends or give it as a gift .
History of Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle first showed up in the early 1800s somewhere in the US , but nobody knows exactly where . Some say it started in the South , others swear it was New England . After the Civil War peanuts got cheaper and more people could try this candy .
At first it was just sugar and peanuts mixed together , but over time cooks tried new nuts and flavors . You’ll find versions with molasses , chocolate or spices depending on the town or family recipe .
It became part of American life , showing up at fairs , holiday parties and community events . Families passed down their own versions and it got tied to memories of home . Even today peanut brittle feels like a classic treat that brings people together .
What Makes Soft Peanut Brittle Different?
Sоft peanut brittle is made to be chewy instead of hard . The big trick is the temperature — you pull the mixture off the heat sooner , so it never turns rock solid .
Also the taste is a bit different . Hard brittle tastes like straight caramelized sugar , but the soft kind has a full peanut earthiness mixed with sweetness . Chewing it gives you more time to enjoy the flavor .
Some folks think soft means it’s not as good or that it’ll be bland , but that’s wrong . It’s just a different style and plenty of people think it’s even better than the crunchy version . It all comes down to what texture you like .
Benefits of Making Soft Peanut Brittle at Home
When you make sоft peanut brittle at home you get to pick your ingredients . If you need organic sugar , non-GMO syrup or special nuts you just add them .
You can also try cool flavors like cinnamon , cayenne or chocolate swirls . That way every batch is unique and making it becomes more fun .
It’s cheaper too if you plan to hand out a lot at holidays or parties . Buying pre-made candy can cost more than a few bags of sugar and peanuts . Plus you get to brag that you made it yourself .
Ingredients for Soft Peanut Brittle
To whip up a tasty batch you’ll need:
- Raw peanuts: 2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups
- Light corn syrup: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
Better peanuts and real vanilla make a big difference . Quality ingredients mean a richer flavor and softer texture .
Detailed Soft Peanut Brittle Recipe
Ingredients
- Raw peanuts: 2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups
- Light corn syrup: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
Directions
- Gather your tools and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat .
- Optionally toast the peanuts at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring out more flavor .
- In a saucepan mix sugar , corn syrup and butter over medium heat . Stir until it’s all melted .
- Let it boil and watch the candy thermometer . You want the soft ball stage, around 235°F (113°C) .
- Take it off the heat and quickly stir in vanilla and baking soda . It will bubble up and that’s okay , it makes it soft .
- Stir in the peanuts so they’re coated evenly .
- Pour it onto the sheet and spread it out with a spatula .
- Let it cool at room temperature until you can break it into pieces .
Serving and Storage Advice
Keep your brittle in an airtight container in a cool , dry place . If you do it right it’ll stay soft for weeks . This makes a great snack or gift for special occasions .
Tips for Perfect Soft Peanut Brittle
- Use a candy thermometer : This helps you hit the right temp so it’s not too hard .
- Don’t overcook : Pull it off when it’s at the soft ball stage so it stays chewy .
- Pick good peanuts : Fresh raw ones add more flavor and texture .
- Prep in advance : Get all your tools ready so you don’t rush once it starts bubbling .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I store soft peanut brittle?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature away from moisture . That keeps the chewiness and flavor intact .
Why did my peanut brittle turn hard?
If you cook past the soft ball stage it will get too hard . Watch the temperature closely and remove it at 235°F .
Can I use salted peanuts?
Sure , if you like a salty contrast to the sweet just grab salted peanuts and mix as usual .
Is there a vegan option for peanut brittle?
Yes , swap the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil and pick a vegan-friendly syrup to make it dairy free .
How can I add other flavors to my peanut brittle?
Try adding chocolate chips , butterscotch chunks or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg when you mix in the peanuts .
Soft Peanut Brittle
Equipment
- 1 Candy thermometer
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 set Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted peanuts, roasted and unsalted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda Be cautious as it may bubble up.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage) on the candy thermometer.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the butter, peanuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Add baking soda to the mixture. Be cautious as it may bubble up. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly mixed.
- Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to spread it evenly, coaxing it into your desired thickness.
- Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature. This should take about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces and enjoy!
