Chocolate Peanut Brittle

Chocolate Peanut Brittle Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chocolate Peanut Brittle is a delicious and crunchy treat that combines the sweetness of brittle with the rich flavor of chocolate and the nuttiness of peanuts. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and makes a great homemade gift for friends and family.

History

Brittle has been a popular candy for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. The addition of chocolate to traditional peanut brittle adds a modern twist to this classic treat, creating a unique and irresistible flavor combination.

Ingredients

1 and a half cup of sugar
0.67 cup of water
0.5 cup of glucose (pure corn syrup)
2 level tablespoonfuls of butter
0.5 lb of raw shelled peanuts
1 teaspoonful of vanilla extract
1 level teaspoonful of soda
1 tablespoonful of cold water
0.5 lb or more of Baker's "Dot" chocolate

How to prepare

Put the sugar, water, and glucose in a saucepan and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Wash down the sides of the saucepan with a cloth or fingers dipped in cold water.
Cover the saucepan and let it boil for three or four minutes.
Uncover the saucepan and let it cook until it reaches a temperature of 275°F (135°C).
To check if it's ready, cool a small amount and chew it. It should cling but not stick to the teeth.
Add the butter and peanuts to the saucepan and stir constantly until the peanuts are nicely browned or have the color of well-roasted peanuts.
Dissolve the soda in cold water, then add the vanilla and soda mixture to the saucepan. Stir vigorously.
When the candy stops foaming, pour it onto a warm and well-oiled marble or platter.
Once it has cooled slightly on the edges, take hold of it at the edge and pull it out as thin as possible.
Loosen it from the center of the receptacle by running a spatula underneath it.
Turn the whole sheet upside down and pull it as thin as possible again.
Break the candy into small pieces and coat them with "Dot" chocolate prepared as in previous recipes.
Optionally, place half of a roasted peanut on each coated piece.
Note that the peanuts used in the brittle should be raw.
The small Spanish peanuts are the best choice for this recipe.
After shelling the peanuts, cover them with boiling water and let them boil once.
Skim out the peanuts and remove the skin before using them.

Variations

Try adding chopped almonds or cashews for a different flavor and texture.
Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a decorative touch.
Sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate coating for a sweet and salty twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a candy thermometer to accurately measure the temperature of the sugar mixture. This will ensure that your brittle sets properly and has the perfect texture.

- Stir the sugar mixture constantly to prevent it from burning and to ensure that the peanuts are evenly coated.

- Work quickly when pouring the hot candy onto the marble or platter, as it will begin to harden as it cools.

- Use a well-oiled surface to prevent the brittle from sticking and make it easier to pull into thin sheets.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Peanut Brittle as a standalone treat or crumble it over ice cream for a delicious dessert topping. It also makes a great gift for holidays and special occasions.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Chocolate Peanut Brittle is to cook the sugar mixture to the correct temperature and work quickly when pouring and pulling the candy. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the desired texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have glucose syrup, you can substitute light corn syrup in this recipe. You can also use almond or cashew butter instead of butter for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Chocolate Peanut Brittle can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming sticky.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Chocolate Peanut Brittle on a decorative platter or in a gift box for a beautiful presentation. You can also wrap individual pieces in wax paper for a charming and portable treat.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chocolate Peanut Brittle with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a classic and satisfying snack. It also pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chocolate Peanut Brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If it becomes sticky, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to restore its crispness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Brittle contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Brittle contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Brittle contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Peanut Brittle contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Peanut Brittle is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chocolate Peanut Brittle is a sweet and indulgent treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional dessert or snack.

Summary

Chocolate Peanut Brittle is a delightful and addictive treat that combines the sweetness of brittle with the richness of chocolate and the crunch of peanuts. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and makes a great homemade gift for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious treat in moderation for a special and indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chocolate Peanut Brittle. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, and I was always eager to watch and learn from her every move.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching my grandmother prepare a batch of her famous peanut brittle, I noticed a small, tattered piece of paper tucked away in her recipe book. Curious, I asked her about it.

"Oh, that old thing," she chuckled, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "That's a recipe I picked up from a dear friend many years ago. It's for Chocolate Peanut Brittle."

Chocolate Peanut Brittle? I had never heard of such a thing. My grandmother explained that it was a twist on the classic peanut brittle, adding chocolate to give it a rich and decadent flavor. She promised to teach me the recipe one day, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

As the years went by, I continued to learn and grow in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and techniques. But the Chocolate Peanut Brittle recipe always held a special place in my heart, a reminder of that moment of wonder and discovery in my grandmother's kitchen.

I eventually mastered the recipe, making it my own with a few tweaks and adjustments along the way. And now, as I pass it down to you, my dear grandchildren, I hope you will feel that same sense of wonder and excitement as you create this delicious treat in your own kitchen.

To make Chocolate Peanut Brittle, you will need:

- 1 cup of granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup of light corn syrup

- 1/4 cup of water

- 1 cup of unsalted peanuts

- 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips

- 1 tablespoon of butter

- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

- 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda

First, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with butter. Set it aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.

Continue to cook the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This is the hard crack stage, when the sugar has caramelized and will form a brittle texture when cooled.

Stir in the peanuts and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is a golden brown color.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the chocolate chips, butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The chocolate will melt and create a rich, smooth texture.

Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out into an even layer with a spatula.

Let the Chocolate Peanut Brittle cool and harden for at least 1 hour. Once set, break it into pieces and enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I have. And remember, the true magic of cooking lies in the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones you love. Happy baking!