Soft Peanut Brittle

Soft Peanut Brittle

This recipe is for a brittle very similar to the soft “Brittle with a cushioned crunch” that was sold by an Oregon company named “The Brittle Kettle” (they're no longer in business, although I don't know why--their candy was so good!). It's also like the centers in See’s Peanut Crunch, so if you need a chocolate~peanut "fix" you can drizzle the completed brittle pieces with melted chocolate for a real treat!

2 cups creamy peanut butter

1-1/2 cups granulated sugar

1-1/2 cups light corn syrup

1/4 cup water plus 2 tsp water (divided)

2 Tbs butter

2 cups peanuts, raw or toasted

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla

In a double boiler over hot water, heat peanut butter while preparing syrup.

In a large saucepan combine sugar, corn syrup and 1/4 cup water.  Cook over high heat to 275° F. on a candy thermometer.  Lower heat to medium and add butter, stirring until melted.  Add peanuts and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until candy starts turning brown and reaches 300° F.

Remove from heat, and stir in baking soda that has been dissolved in the remaining 2 tsp water.  Add vanilla.

Working quickly, fold in warm peanut butter, stirring gently.  At once, pour candy mixture onto well-greased marble slab or cookie sheet.  Quickly spread as thin as possible.  The secret of the candy is quick cooling. 

To serve, break into serving-size portions. When cold, drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired.

Cousin Terri & Treeva (with Ginger)