r i p e




Peanut Brittle    (printer friendly)
Makes about 3 1/2 pounds


Peanut Brittle3 cups sugar
2 cups water
3/4 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup dark corn syrup

4 cups salted, dry-roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract


1. Butter 2 heavy large baking sheets.

2. Stir first 4 ingredients in heavy large saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and boil without stirring until candy thermometer registers 260°F, about 40 minutes.

3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Mix in peanuts and butter and cook until thermometer registers 295°F, stirring constantly, about 15 minutes. When you first add all the peanuts it will be hard to stir, but it will get easier once they heat up.

4. Add baking soda and vanilla and stir briskly (mixture will foam up). Immediately pour out onto prepared baking sheets, dividing evenly. Spread out brittle as thinly as possible. Let stand until cold and hard.

5. Break brittle into pieces. Store in airtight containers at room temperature. Can be prepared 1 month ahead.