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Peanut Brittle Holiday Candy Gift

Old-fashioned peanut brittle never goes out of style, and making it from scratch is actually easier than you think! This buttery, crunchy candy brings back nostalgic holiday memories and makes people feel extra special when they receive it. Break it into rustic pieces and pack it in vintage-style tins or mason jars for a beautiful homemade gift.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 cups raw peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons butter plus more for greasing
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Generously butter a large baking sheet (or two smaller ones) and set aside. Have all ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Stir in peanuts and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until a candy thermometer reads 300°F (hard crack stage), about 15-20 minutes. The mixture will turn a golden amber color.
  4. Immediately remove from heat and quickly stir in butter, vanilla, baking soda, and salt. The mixture will foam up—this is normal!
  5. Working quickly, pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it thin using a buttered spatula or wooden spoon.
  6. Allow to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. Once hardened, break into pieces by tapping with the back of a spoon or hitting with a mallet. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.