Whip up a batch of golden, crispy "Peanut Brittle in a Jiffy" with this quick and foolproof recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Featuring a perfect blend of granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and salted peanuts, this timeless treat gets its signature airy crunch from a touch of baking soda. A splash of vanilla extract and a hint of buttery richness elevate the flavor, while the simple stovetop caramelization technique ensures a flawless golden hue. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic homemade snack or an impressive edible gift, this sweet and salty brittle promises instant satisfaction. Best of all, it stays fresh for up to two weeks—ideal for make-ahead holiday treats!
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble, about 4-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully stir in the salted peanuts. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns a golden caramel color, about 5 minutes. Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Immediately sprinkle the baking soda over the mixture and stir quickly. The mixture will foam up slightly—this is normal and creates the brittle's airy texture.
Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out as thinly as possible with a heatproof spatula. Work quickly, as the brittle will start to harden almost immediately.
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes. Once hardened, break it into pieces with your hands or a knife.
Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Calories |
2976 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 139.0 g | 178% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.0 g | 165% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 33.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1998 mg | 87% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 411.6 g | 150% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.6 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 387.3 g | ||
| Protein | 61.5 g | 123% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 140 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 1605 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.