Peanut brittle is a timeless classic candy loved by many for its perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Traditionally made with butter and sometimes even eggs, it might seem off-limits for those following a vegan lifestyle.
But fear not! This vegan peanut brittle recipe is here to satisfy your sweet tooth without any animal products.
With simple pantry ingredients, you can create a glossy, crispy treat that’s entirely plant-based and utterly delicious.
Whether you’re gifting it during the holidays or craving a homemade snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s straightforward to make, requires minimal equipment, and delivers that unmistakable crunch with the rich, roasted flavor of peanuts.
Plus, it’s completely free from dairy and eggs, making it perfect for vegans and those with dietary restrictions. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy and rewarding homemade vegan candy can be!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peanut brittle recipe is not only vegan-friendly but also incredibly simple to prepare. It uses natural sweeteners and avoids any artificial additives, so you know exactly what’s going into your treat.
The texture is just right—crisp and crunchy without being too hard on your teeth. Plus, it’s loaded with nutritious peanuts, which add a lovely nutty flavor and a good dose of protein and healthy fats.
Another bonus? It stores beautifully and makes a fantastic homemade gift or party favor.
If you’ve been hesitant about making candy from scratch, this recipe will show you that it’s easier than you think, with clear step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Granulated Sugar | 1 cup (200g) | Use organic or cane sugar for best results |
Light Corn Syrup | 1/2 cup (120ml) | Helps prevent crystallization, vegan-friendly options available |
Water | 1/4 cup (60ml) | Room temperature |
Roasted Peanuts | 1 cup (140g) | Use unsalted for better control of saltiness |
Baking Soda | 1 tsp | Creates lightness and bubbles in the brittle |
Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla adds depth of flavor |
Salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances the sweetness |
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Candy thermometer (essential for accuracy)
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof bowl (optional for quick transfer)
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Have all your ingredients measured and ready, as candy making moves quickly.
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water: In the heavy-bottomed saucepan, stir together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Boil the mixture: Attach your candy thermometer to the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (150°C), also known as the hard crack stage. This can take about 10-15 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Add peanuts: Once the mixture reaches 300°F, immediately stir in the roasted peanuts evenly. Mix quickly but carefully to coat the peanuts well.
- Remove from heat and add baking soda and vanilla: Take the pan off the stove. Quickly stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. The baking soda will cause the mixture to foam and lighten in color—this is what gives peanut brittle its airy crunch.
- Spread the brittle: Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer as thin as possible. Work quickly before it hardens.
- Cool completely: Let the peanut brittle cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until fully hardened.
- Break into pieces: Once cooled, gently break the brittle into bite-sized chunks. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Tips & Variations
Always use a candy thermometer to ensure your brittle reaches the perfect hard crack stage. Under-cooked candy can be sticky, while overcooked candy can burn and taste bitter.
For a twist, try swapping peanuts with other nuts like almonds or cashews. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat or swirl in some melted vegan dark chocolate once the brittle is spread but still warm.
If you prefer a less sweet brittle, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup, but keep the other ingredients the same to maintain texture. For extra crunch, lightly toast your peanuts before adding them to the sugar mixture.
Interested in other vegan snack ideas? Check out our Almond Cashew Clusters Recipe for a nutty delight or indulge in the comforting flavors of our All American Chili Recipe Cooking Light.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 30g) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Sugars | 15g |
Protein | 4g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 60mg |
Serving Suggestions
Peanut brittle is fantastic on its own as a crunchy snack, but you can also serve it alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Crumble it over vegan ice cream or plant-based yogurt for added texture and sweetness.
It also makes a wonderful garnish for holiday desserts, adding a festive crunch to cakes and pies. For something extra special, pair this brittle with our Baileys Whipped Cream Recipe: A Delicious Topping to create a decadent vegan dessert plate.
Conclusion
Creating your own vegan peanut brittle is a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients with a bit of candy-making magic. This recipe captures the perfect balance between sweet and salty, crunchy and airy, all without any animal products.
It’s an excellent way to enjoy a nostalgic treat while sticking to your plant-based lifestyle.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a fun and creative project that can be shared with friends and family. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this peanut brittle will add a sweet sparkle to your recipe collection.
Don’t forget to explore more vegan delights like our Allens Green Beans Recipe and Albacore Tuna Poke Recipe for diverse and flavorful meals!
📖 Recipe Card: Peanut Brittle Recipe Vegan
Description: A crunchy and sweet vegan peanut brittle made without dairy or eggs. Perfect for a plant-based snack or gift.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup raw peanuts
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Add peanuts and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in coconut oil, baking soda, salt, and vanilla.
- Pour mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread thin.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 18g