Peanut Brittle Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry roasted unsalted peanuts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup water

Steps

1. 1

   Combine the peanuts, salt, and baking soda in a small bowl. Measure the butter and set it next to the peanut mixture.

2. 2

   Line a rimmed quarter sheet pan with parchment paper.

3. 3

   In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Stir to moisten the sugar, then set over medium heat and bring to a boil. Do not stir the mixture; instead, swirl the pan as it cooks.

4. 4

   When the sugar reaches a boil, add the butter and carefully set a candy thermometer in the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, swirling the pan every once in a while until the mixture reaches between 300˚F and 310˚F, or a caramel color, known as the "hard crack" stage. Remove the pan from the heat and add the peanut mixture. Carefully stir 4 to 5 times to incorporate the peanuts. Take care during this step, as the baking soda will cause the sugar mixture to bubble and expand.

5. 5

   Working quickly, dump the mixture onto the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer with a rubber spatula.

6. 6

   Let the peanut brittle sit for about 30 minutes to harden, then break into 2-inch pieces and enjoy.