Peanut Brittle with Mixed Nuts
This old-fashioned peanut brittle with mixed nuts is sweet, salty, and wonderfully crunchy. Made with real butter and a generous 2 1/2 cups of nuts, it's a delicious homemade Christmas candy that's perfect for holiday treat trays and gift giving. You can also make it with traditional peanuts.
Servings 30 pieces
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter
- ½ cup clear corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ cups mixed nuts
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Butter a large, rimmed baking sheet. Line with parchment paper and lightly butter the top of the parchment as well.
- Measure the mixed nuts and baking soda into separate containers so they are ready to use.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, corn syrup, water, and salt.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. Watch carefully once it reaches 270°F, as the temperature rises quickly.
- Immediately remove from the heat and quickly stir in the mixed nuts.
- Add the baking soda and stir quickly. The mixture will foam and puff up.
- Immediately pour onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread gently with a buttered spoon or heat-resistant spatula.
- Let cool completely, about 30 minutes, then break into bite-sized pieces.
Notes
Traditional Peanut Brittle: Replace the mixed nuts with 2 1/2 cups of peanuts. Add the peanuts when the candy reaches 250°F and continue cooking to 300°F before adding the baking soda.
Safety: Boiling sugar can cause serious burns. Keep children out of the kitchen and never leave the candy unattended.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.