Crunchy, buttery, and perfectly sweet—this easy peanut brittle comes together fast with pantry staples and zero fuss. If brittle has ever felt intimidating, this method makes it reliable every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in ~15 minutes
No candy thermometer needed
Ultra-crunchy, not sticky
Simple ingredients
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup water
1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted)
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step: Foolproof Peanut Brittle
1) Prep first (important!)
Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it. Measure everything—once the sugar melts, things move fast.
2) Cook the syrup
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring. Cook until the mixture turns deep amber (about 8–10 minutes).
3) Add peanuts
Stir in peanuts and cook 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.
4) Finish fast
Remove from heat. Quickly stir in butter, vanilla, salt, and baking soda. It will foam—this is what makes it light and crisp.
5) Spread & cool
Immediately pour onto the prepared sheet and spread thin with a spatula. Let cool completely (about 10 minutes), then break into pieces.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crunch
Don’t stir while caramelizing—it can crystallize.
Go thin when spreading for extra snap.
Use roasted peanuts for deeper flavor.
Work quickly after adding baking soda.
Easy Variations
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder
Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate once cooled
Nut swap: Try almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts
Salty-sweet: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top
Storage
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid humidity—it softens the brittle.