Old fashioned peanut brittle is a classic sweet treat. It is crunchy, sweet and full of peanuts. This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is easy to make at home. The combination of caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts is irresistible.
It melts slightly in your mouth but stays crunchy. Many people love it during holidays or special occasions. You only need simple ingredients to make it. This recipe is also a fun activity to try with family.
If you want to learn how to make Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle, this guide will show you every step. You will also see all ingredients for Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle to make it perfect at home.
My Experience With This Recipe
I tried this peanut brittle last winter. The smell of caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts filled my kitchen. It felt warm and inviting. The brittle came out shiny, golden and crunchy. My family loved it instantly.
They said it tasted better than store-bought candy. I enjoyed breaking it into small pieces and packing some for friends. This recipe is simple but gives professional results. Now I make it every year during holidays. It’s fun, quick, and everyone enjoys it.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle
- Servings: 15
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Course: Dessert / Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 200 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Heavy saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You Need for Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Keep it ready to pour the hot brittle on.
2. Mix Sugar and Syrup
Add sugar and corn syrup to a heavy saucepan. Stir gently on medium heat.
3. Cook Until Boiling
Cook the sugar mixture until it boils and reaches golden color. Stir occasionally.
4. Add Butter
Add butter slowly. Stir constantly to mix with the hot syrup evenly.
5. Add Peanuts
Add roasted peanuts. Mix well so peanuts are coated in sugar mixture completely.
6. Continue Cooking
Cook until the candy reaches 300°F or hard crack stage. Use a candy thermometer.
7. Remove from Heat
Turn off the stove. Quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract.
8. Pour on Baking Sheet
Pour hot brittle onto prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly with a spatula.
9. Let It Cool
Allow the peanut brittle to cool at room temperature. Do not touch until hard.
10. Break Into Pieces
Once fully set, break the brittle into small pieces using your hands or a knife.
Recipe Tips
- Use a candy thermometer to avoid burning the sugar.
- Stir continuously to prevent sugar crystals from forming.
- Work fast after adding baking soda; it helps the brittle puff slightly.
- Use fresh roasted peanuts for best taste.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
Serving Suggestions
Old fashioned peanut brittle tastes great as a snack or dessert. Serve it with coffee, tea or hot chocolate. You can also crush it and sprinkle over ice cream.
It makes a perfect holiday treat or party snack. Kids and adults both enjoy its crunchy texture and sweet flavor. Pack it in small gift bags for friends and family during holidays.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Hot chocolate
- Coffee or latte
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh fruit slices
- Soft cookies
These sides complement the sweet and crunchy flavor of peanut brittle perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store peanut brittle in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature. Avoid humidity or moisture to maintain crispiness. Do not refrigerate, as it may soften.
Peanut brittle can stay fresh for up to two weeks. If pieces stick together, separate them gently. There is no need to reheat, as it is best crunchy and ready to eat.

Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Keep it ready to pour the hot brittle on.
Mix Sugar and Syrup
- Add sugar and corn syrup to a heavy saucepan. Stir gently on medium heat.
Cook Until Boiling
- Cook the sugar mixture until it boils and reaches golden color. Stir occasionally.
Add Butter
- Add butter slowly. Stir constantly to mix with the hot syrup evenly.
Add Peanuts
- Add roasted peanuts. Mix well so peanuts are coated in sugar mixture completely.
Continue Cooking
- Cook until the candy reaches 300°F or hard crack stage. Use a candy thermometer.
Remove from Heat
- Turn off the stove. Quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract.
Pour on Baking Sheet
- Pour hot brittle onto prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly with a spatula.
Let It Cool
- Allow the peanut brittle to cool at room temperature. Do not touch until hard.
Break Into Pieces
- Once fully set, break the brittle into small pieces using your hands or a knife.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to avoid burning the sugar.
- Stir continuously to prevent sugar crystals from forming.
- Work fast after adding baking soda; it helps the brittle puff slightly.
- Use fresh roasted peanuts for best taste.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle
1. Why did my brittle become sticky?
Sticky brittle usually happens due to humidity or sugar not cooked enough. Make sure to cook to hard crack stage.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes, almonds, cashews or pecans work well. Roast them lightly for better flavor.
3. Why is my brittle too hard or burnt?
This happens when sugar cooks too long. Use a candy thermometer and remove promptly at 300°F.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container for one to two weeks. Keep away from heat and moisture.
5. Is it possible to add flavor variations?
Yes, add a pinch of cinnamon, sea salt or vanilla extract for extra flavor. Experiment to find your favorite.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle Recipe is classic, crunchy and full of flavor. Now you know how to make Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle at home easily. The ingredients for Old Fashioned Peanut Brittle are simple and the process is fun.
It is perfect for holidays, parties or a sweet snack anytime. Try this recipe today and enjoy the crunchy, nutty, sweet treat with family and friends.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.


















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