We love a good peanut brittle. We know, we're a little biased.
A classic Virginia peanut brittle recipe is the perfect complement to any holiday but we're spicing things up with a twist on this traditional family favorite. Add in a sprinkling of Jalapeño and bacon for a peanut brittle recipe that's sure to pack a flavorful punch. Your guests won't know what to do with themselves.
Let's get this party started.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups raw peanuts shelled (blanched peanuts or redskin peanuts may be used)
- 1-3 cup fresh Jalapeño peppers, cleaned, finely chopped (no seeds and no white flesh)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- Optional: 6 pieces bacon, crumbled
Method:
Generously butter a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan. Set aside. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter; add Jalapeños and cook over low heat until peppers are soft.
In a heavy saucepan, bring the sugar, corn syrup, water and salt to a rolling boil. Add raw peanuts and chopped Jalapeño. Pro tip: for a salty crunch, add 6 pieces of cooked bacon (crumbled) when you add the Jalapeños and peanuts for a Jalapeño Bacon Peanut Brittle.
Reduce heat to medium and stir constantly. Cook to 'hard crack' stage (300°-310° F.)
Add 2 tablespoon butter then mix in baking soda. Whisk rapidly and pour onto buttered surface, spreading to ¼ inch thickness. When brittle has cooled, break it into pieces.
Store in an airtight container. Makes approximately 2 pounds.
From a simple mistake to a southern tradition to a trendy candy, peanut brittle is a holiday staple. Whether you're making grandma’s old-fashioned peanut brittle recipe or spicing it up with Jalapeños and bacon, always remember to love the land, respect your roots and give your best.