Prepare to indulge in the irresistible delight of homemade Nut Brittle, a timeless candy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive Christmas treat or a sweet indulgence for dessert lovers year-round. With a total time of just 40 minutes, including 20 minutes of cooking and 20 minutes of preparation, this recipe yields approximately 1 1/2 pounds of crunchy, nutty goodness. 🍬
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cups raw peanuts
- 1 1/2 tablespoons butter or margarine
Instructions:
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Begin by melting the peanut butter in the top of a double boiler over medium heat, ensuring to stir constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
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Once the peanut butter is melted, reduce the heat to low and allow it to stand, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
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While the peanut butter is melting, lightly grease a 16×14-inch baking sheet and set it aside for later use.
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In a small bowl, blend together the baking soda and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar and prevent scorching.
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Once the mixture reaches a boil, add in the raw peanuts and butter (or margarine), stirring continuously to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking.
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Reduce the heat to medium and continue to boil the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 280°F on a candy thermometer, stirring constantly to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, caramelized texture.
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Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the melted peanut butter until it is fully incorporated into the mixture.
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Next, add the vanilla mixture to the saucepan, stirring vigorously until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture has a uniform consistency.
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Immediately pour the hot mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, using a buttered rolling pin to quickly and evenly spread it out to the desired thickness. Work swiftly, as the mixture will begin to set rapidly.
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Allow the Nut Brittle to cool completely on the baking sheet until it hardens and sets. This may take some time, so be patient and resist the temptation to sample it too soon!
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Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces of your desired size and shape. The irregular shards add to the charm of this homemade candy.
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Store your freshly made Nut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, although it’s unlikely to last that long once your friends and family get a taste of this irresistible treat!
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert option or a homemade gift that’s sure to impress, this Nut Brittle recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a batch of crunchy, nutty perfection that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade candy with this simple and delicious recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
