Old Virginia Nut Brittle

Savor the nostalgic charm of Old Virginia Nut Brittle, a classic Southern candy recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into a crunchy, golden masterpiece. This homemade treat combines granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and a touch of butter to create a perfectly caramelized base infused with the rich flavors of roasted peanuts (or your favorite nuts like pecans or cashews), vanilla extract, and a dash of salt. The addition of baking soda creates a signature airy texture, ensuring a crisp yet melt-in-your-mouth bite every time. With just 10 minutes of prep and a short 20-minute cook time, this nut brittle is perfect for gift-giving, holiday snacking, or a sweet indulgence any time of the year. Bring a taste of old-fashioned candy-making into your kitchen with this easy recipe that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat!

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 0.5 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups raw peanuts (or your preferred nuts, e.g., pecans or cashews)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Prepare a large baking sheet by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper. Set it aside.

Step 2

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to mix.

Step 3

Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Step 4

Once boiling, reduce stirring and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 280°F (soft-crack stage).

Step 5

Stir in the unsalted butter and raw peanuts. Cook further, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage). The sugar will turn a golden amber color at this point.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from heat immediately and stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. The mixture will foam up slightly—stir quickly but carefully.

Step 7

Pour the hot brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out as thinly as possible with a greased spatula or by tilting the pan to distribute the mixture evenly.

Step 8

Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until it hardens (about 1 hour).

Step 9

Break the hardened brittle into pieces by hand or using a knife.

Step 10

Store the nut brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1098.5 grams (1098.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4120

Total Fat 171.10g	219%
Saturated Fat 32.80g	164%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 2534mg	110%
Total Carbohydrate 626.30g	228%
Dietary Fiber 25.40g	91%
Total Sugars 592.20g
Protein 77.30g	155%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 289mg	22%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 2121mg	45%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.4%

Protein: 7.1%

Carbs: 57.5%