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November 16, 2005

Lena's Peanut Brittle


Lena's Peanut Brittle

Lena lived on a farm, and was a member of our church when I was growing
up. Every Christmas she made the most awesome peanut brittle that I've
ever had. Thankfully I had the foresight to write to her and get her
recipe before she died--she was always happy to share her recipes with
others. Here it is for your enjoyment!

1 cup white corn syrup
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup water
1 lb. raw peanuts (approximately 3 cups--add some more if you want!)
2 Tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
1/2 teaspoon salt

Method: Combine syrup, sugars, and water in a large kettle (I use a 5
quart dutch oven). Bring mixture to 230 degrees farenheit, or until
syrup spins thread (if you do this on high heat, be sure to stir mixture
constantly!). Add peanuts and continue cooking and stirring until
mixture reaches 300 degrees farenheit (hard crack stage). Constant
stirring (preferably with a large wooden spoon) will keep mixture from
burning.

Remove kettle from heat (you'll need to work kind of quickly with this,
so the peanut brittle will not harden up on you!). Add vanilla, butter,
soda, and salt. Stir until blended. Pour out evenly into a well
buttered jelly roll pan (a non-stick pan will work just as well). Try
not to work too much with the mixture, as this will force all of the
bubbles out, making the peanut brittle tough. Cool and break into pieces.

NOTE: This is NOT the type of peanut brittle that you have to pull and
stretch. This peanut brittle will be foamy, easy to eat, and will
virtually melt in your mouth. Enjoy!


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Posted by Willie Crawford at November 16, 2005 06:18 PM

Comments

I just tried your recipe, but I might have done something wrong. The brittle has a great taste, but it turned out a bit chewy. It could have been that my baking soda is old or the cheap candy thermometer I used (just ordered a better one). Any suggestions or thoughts?
Thank you, Mary

Posted by: Queeni [TypeKey Profile Page] at December 25, 2005 03:31 AM

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