There’s something magical about peanut brittle during the holidays—crunchy, buttery, and packed with sweet roasted peanuts that melt in your mouth with each bite.
This recipe keeps that classic flavor but adds a festive touch, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or a homemade gift that friends and family will love.
One reason peanut brittle is such a holiday staple is its nostalgic sweetness and simplicity. It’s easy to make in big batches, ideal for sharing, and requires only a few pantry ingredients.
The key to achieving that signature crunch? Cooking the sugar mixture to a perfect golden amber, then adding a touch of baking soda just before pouring. This step lightens the texture, making the brittle smooth, crisp, and oh-so-satisfying.
With this easy Christmas Peanut Brittle, you’ll have a delicious balance of salty and sweet that’s perfect for the season.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- It’s effortless and affordable: Made with simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry.
- Perfectly crunchy: The baking soda addition ensures the perfect, crisp texture every time.
- Ideal for gifting: It’s easy to make in large batches and wrap up for homemade gifts.
- Stays fresh: The brittle keeps its crunch for weeks in an airtight container, so it’s great to make ahead.
- Classic holiday taste: There’s something nostalgic about the buttery, peanut flavor that brings back memories of family gatherings.
Christmas Peanut Brittle Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Cookie Sheet Pan 9″ x 13″
- 1 Parchment Paper
- Candy thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 8 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ½ Cup Water
- 2 Cups Granulated Sugar
- 12 Ounces Roasted Nuts of your choice
- ⅓ Cup Corn Syrup Dark or Light
Instructions
- Prepare a 9″ x 13″ sheet pan by lining it with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper, or lightly grease with butter.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, butter, and corn syrup.
- Heat over medium-high, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to boil.
- Wipe the inside of the pan with a clean brush dipped in cold water to remove any sugar crystals.
- Continue cooking until the caramel reaches 300°F, about 8-12 minutes.
- Remove from heat, add baking soda, and stir briefly (careful, it may sputter).
- Add the nuts and stir quickly to coat them with the caramel.
- Pour the mixture onto a heat-resistant surface (like Silpat) and smooth with a spatula.
- Let the brittle cool completely (about 40 minutes) and break it into pieces. Enjoy!
