Looking for a dessert that blends nostalgia with a modern twist? This caramel-vanilla peanut brittle recipe is your answer.
With its rich caramelized flavor, satisfying crunch, and a hint of vanilla, this timeless treat will have everyone asking for more. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a journey through the history and evolution of a classic candy that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
A Sweet History of Peanut Brittle
Peanut brittle has been a beloved dessert for centuries, originating from simple recipes that featured molasses and sugar. Over time, innovative cooks transformed this rustic candy into the airy, crisp treat we know today.
By introducing baking soda to the mix, the recipe evolved into a delicate, honeycomb-like texture, giving brittle its signature crunch.
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This caramel-vanilla version skips the molasses in favor of corn syrup, creating a smoother, more refined flavor profile while still maintaining the classic appeal.
Why This Dessert Recipe Stands Out
What makes this peanut brittle recipe exceptional is its ease and versatility. Forget the need for fancy equipment or even a candy thermometer.
The caramelization process is straightforward, with visual cues guiding you through. The result is a recipe that’s approachable for beginners yet sophisticated enough for seasoned bakers.
This version elevates the traditional dessert by infusing it with vanilla and caramel notes, creating a depth of flavor that complements the roasted peanuts. The result? A brittle that’s tender, crisp, and utterly irresistible.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Brittle
- Watch the color: As the syrup cooks, look for a tawny, golden hue—this indicates it’s ready for the baking soda to work its magic.
- Prep ahead: Have all your ingredients, including baking soda and salt, measured and ready to go. Timing is key when working with hot sugar.
- Use a non-stick surface: Grease your baking sheet or use parchment paper to ensure the brittle releases cleanly.
Variations to Try
This peanut brittle recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to create personalized versions:
- Nut Swap: Replace peanuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans for a unique twist.
- Bacon Brittle: For a savory-sweet combo, substitute the butter with rendered bacon drippings.
- Crispy Sprinkle: Pulverize brittle into a fine powder for a crunchy dessert topping over ice cream or cupcakes.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, break the brittle into bite-sized pieces and store it in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to a month or can be frozen for longer storage.
Serve it as a standalone treat, or pair it with coffee or tea for an indulgent snack. For a creative dessert, use it as a topping for ice cream sundaes or crumble it over frosted cakes.
The Perfect Gift or Party Favor
Homemade peanut brittle makes an excellent gift for holidays or special occasions. Package it in decorative bags or tins, and you have a thoughtful, delicious present that’s sure to delight.
Its crunchy texture and caramel-vanilla aroma make it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, turning a simple dessert recipe into the highlight of any party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This caramel-vanilla peanut brittle is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. It bridges the gap between classic comfort and contemporary flavor, making it a dessert that feels timeless yet fresh.
Indulge in this delightful treat and let its caramelized charm and nutty crunch transform your dessert repertoire.
Caramel-Vanilla Peanut Brittle Recipe
Equipment
- Aluminum baking sheet
- Heat-resistant spatula
Ingredients
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or refined coconut oil
- 1 rounded cup dry-roasted or honey-roasted peanuts salted if desired
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt use half if iodized
Instructions
Prepare Vanilla and Mix Syrup:
- Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Save the pod for another use.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, combine water, corn syrup, sugar, butter, and vanilla seeds. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring gently with a fork, until the syrup is clear and bubbling, about 5 minutes.
Cook Syrup:
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Without stirring, let the mixture cook until it turns golden (approximately 10 minutes or until 340°F if using a thermometer).
Prepare Baking Sheet:
- While waiting, grease an aluminum baking sheet lightly and mix baking soda and salt in a small bowl.
Finish and Spread:
- Once the syrup is ready, turn off the heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and salt until combined. Fold in the peanuts.
- Pour the mixture onto the baking sheet and spread into an even 12-by-8-inch layer using the spatula. Let cool for 1 hour at room temperature.
Break and Store:
- Break the brittle into 2-inch pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Notes
- Avoid using honey, molasses, or maple syrup as they disrupt the brittle’s structure.
- Break the brittle with a kitchen mallet for easier portioning.
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.