Soft Peanut Brittle: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Treat

If you love traditional peanut brittle but prefer a softer, creamier texture, this soft peanut brittle is the perfect homemade treat. Combining creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanuts, this recipe delivers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy & Crunchy: A perfect balance of smooth peanut butter and crunchy peanuts.

Easier to Eat: Unlike classic brittle, this version is softer and won’t hurt your teeth.

Great for Gifting: A homemade treat that friends and family will love.

Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a quick and delicious treat.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups creamy peanut butter
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup water plus 2 teaspoons, divided
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups peanuts, raw or roasted
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Butter a large baking sheet and set it aside.

In a double boiler over hot water, melt the peanut butter and keep it warm.

In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and ¼ cup water. Cook over high heat until the temperature reaches 275°F on a candy thermometer.

Reduce heat to medium, add butter, and stir until melted.

Stir in the peanuts and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown and reaches 300°F.

Remove from heat and mix in baking soda dissolved in the remaining 2 teaspoons of water.

Stir in vanilla, then gently fold in the warm peanut butter.

Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it as thin as possible.

Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Brittle

  • Use a Candy Thermometer: Ensuring the right temperature is key to achieving the perfect texture.
  • Warm the Peanut Butter: This helps it blend smoothly with the brittle mixture.
  • For a Softer Texture: Add an extra tablespoon of butter when folding in the peanut butter.
  • Spreading Evenly: Work quickly when pouring the mixture to get an even thickness.

How to Store Soft Peanut Brittle

Keep your peanut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed container and enjoy it later.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but the texture may be less smooth. If you prefer extra crunch, chunky peanut butter works well.

2. Can I make this without corn syrup?
Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, but you can try honey or maple syrup as an alternative. The texture may vary slightly.

3. Why is my peanut brittle too hard?
If the mixture is overcooked past 300°F, it will become too brittle. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.

4. Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes! Almonds, cashews, or pecans can be great substitutes.

5. How do I make this peanut brittle even softer?
Adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a small amount of heavy cream can result in a softer consistency.

6. Can I add chocolate to this recipe?
Yes! Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brittle for a delicious twist.

7. How long does soft peanut brittle last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it lasts about two weeks. Freezing extends its shelf life.

8. What is the best way to break peanut brittle?
Once fully cooled, use your hands or a rolling pin to gently break it into pieces.

9. Can I make this in the microwave?
It’s best made on the stovetop for even heat control, but some microwave versions exist with shorter cooking times.

10. Why is my brittle sticky?
Humidity can make brittle sticky. Store it in a cool, dry place to keep it crisp.

Enjoy Homemade Peanut Brittle Anytime

This soft peanut brittle is an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for yourself or gifting it to loved ones, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Soft Peanut Brittle

This soft peanut brittle is a delightful twist on the classic, combining creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanuts for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for snacking or gifting, this homemade treat is easier to make than you might think.

Ingredients
  

  • – 2 cups creamy peanut butter
  • – 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • – 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
  • – ¼ cup water plus 2 teaspoons divided
  • – 2 tablespoons butter
  • – 2 cups peanuts raw or roasted
  • – 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • – 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions
 

  • Butter a large baking sheet and set aside.
  • In a double boiler over hot water, melt the peanut butter.
  • In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and ¼ cup water. Cook over high heat until the temperature reaches 275°F on a candy thermometer.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add butter, and stir until melted.
  • Stir in the peanuts and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture turns brown and reaches 300°F.
  • Remove from heat and mix in baking soda dissolved in the remaining 2 teaspoons of water.
  • Stir in vanilla, then gently fold in the warm peanut butter.
  • Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it as thin as possible.
  • Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
  • Store in an airtight container.

Notes

– Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control.
– Warming the peanut butter ahead of time helps it blend more smoothly.
– If you prefer a softer texture, add a tablespoon of butter when folding in the peanut butter.