The Ultimate Peanut Butter Brittle Recipe: Crunchy, Sweet, and Irresistibly Delicious!
Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? Look no further than this amazing peanut butter brittle recipe! This recipe is not just about making a brittle; it's about creating a sensational treat that's perfect for sharing (or not!). Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every single bite.
What Makes This Peanut Butter Brittle Recipe Special?
This isn't your grandma's brittle (unless your grandma was a culinary genius!). We've perfected the recipe to ensure:
- Exceptional Crispness: We'll achieve that perfect shatter with a few key techniques.
- Intense Peanut Butter Flavor: Get ready for a peanut butter explosion!
- Easy-to-Follow Instructions: Even beginners can master this recipe.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: Not too sweet, not too bland – just right!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular works great!)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted peanuts (roasted and salted, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Line a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Making the Brittle:
- Combine ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, peanut butter, water, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Cook to perfection: Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This is crucial for the perfect texture! Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Add baking soda and vanilla: Remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up – that's normal!
- Add peanuts (optional): If using peanuts, gently stir them into the mixture.
Cooling and Breaking:
- Pour and spread: Quickly pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Cool completely: Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature. This will take at least an hour, maybe longer depending on your kitchen's temperature. The longer it cools, the crispier it will be.
- Break into pieces: Once completely cool, break the brittle into irregular pieces. This is the fun part! Use a hammer or a brittle cracker for easier breakage.
Tips for Brittle Success:
- Use a candy thermometer: This is essential for achieving the correct temperature and perfect consistency.
- Don't stir after adding the baking soda: Stirring after this step can cause the brittle to become grainy.
- Work quickly: Once the baking soda is added, the mixture cools rapidly, so work efficiently.
- Store properly: Store your brittle in an airtight container at room temperature.
Enjoy Your Homemade Peanut Butter Brittle!
This recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. The rich peanut butter flavor combined with the satisfying crunch makes it irresistible! Share it with friends, family, or simply savor every delicious bite on your own. Happy brittle making!