Mom’s Classic Peanut Brittle

Instructions

1. 1

   Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with butter. Have all ingredients measured and ready to go, as you'll need to work quickly once the candy reaches temperature.

2. 2

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to combine, then stop stirring. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook over medium-high heat without stirring.
3. 3

   When the mixture reaches 280°F (soft crack stage), quickly stir in the peanuts. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 300°F (hard crack stage) and the mixture turns golden amber.

4. 4

   Remove from heat immediately and quickly stir in butter, vanilla, salt, and baking soda. The mixture will foam up dramatically when you add the baking soda – this is normal and creates the brittle's signature texture.

5. 5

   Working quickly, pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it thin with a buttered spatula or wooden spoon. Don't worry about making it perfectly even – rustic is beautiful with brittle.

6. 6

   Let cool completely, about 30 minutes, until hardened. Break into irregular pieces by hand or tap gently with a knife handle. Store in an airtight container.