Makes 1 thin sheet
Brittle is some of the easiest candy to make, and the pay-off is unbeatable! This basic version uses peanuts, but you can substitute any nuts, especially roughly chopped almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts, or even sesame seeds, pepitas, or oats. Add smoked sea salt or cocoa nibs for a little something special.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup (10 oz) sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup (6.7 oz) light corn syrup
- 2 cups (10.7 oz) roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Directions
- Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat. Lightly oil the silicone mat, as well as an offset palette knife. Set aside.
- Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil while stirring.
- Add the corn syrup and continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 239°F.
- Add the peanuts and cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is a light caramel color. It will continue to darken after it is removed from the heat.
- Remove from the heat and add the salt, butter, and vanilla extract. Add the baking soda and stir well to incorporate.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared silicone mat and spread with the oiled palette knife.
- If desired, when the brittle cools to a plastic consistency, pull into thin sheets to make a more delicate candy.
- When cooled completely, break into pieces and store protected from humidity.
