This Jalapeño Peanut Brittle is the ultimate sweet-and-spicy treat—crunchy, buttery, and packed with flavor. With a golden sugar base, roasted peanuts for texture, and finely diced jalapeños for heat, this candy is perfect for adventurous snackers or anyone who loves a little kick in their sweets.
A bold twist on classic peanut brittle that’s impossible to stop eating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🔥 Sweet & Spicy: The perfect balance of sugar and jalapeño heat in every bite.
- 🥜 Peanut Power: Salted peanuts add crunch and richness without being too heavy.
- ⏱️ Quick Candy Fix: Ready from start to finish in under 2 hours.
- 🧑🍳 Great for Gifting: Wrap in cellophane bags or mason jars for homemade gifts.
- 📦 Make Ahead Magic: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Ingredients (Makes about 18–24 pieces):
- 2–3 medium jalapeño peppers , deseeded and finely diced (wear gloves to avoid skin contact)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup if available)
- 2 cups salted peanuts (raw or roasted – no need to blanch)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Preparation:
- Parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish
- Candy thermometer
- Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet or tray for cooling
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Set aside while preparing the sugar mixture.
Step 2: Prep the Jalapeños
Wearing gloves, finely dice the jalapeños , removing seeds and stems for moderate heat (leave some for extra kick!).
Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine:
- Sugar
- Water
- Corn syrup
Stir gently to combine before placing over medium heat .
Once boiling, stop stirring and let it cook until the temperature reaches 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer .
This stage is known as the “hard ball” stage and ensures a chewier texture.
Step 4: Add Peanuts & Jalapeños
Add the peanuts and jalapeños to the sugar syrup.
Stir constantly as the mixture continues cooking to 300°F (149°C) — also known as the “hard crack ” stage. This is when the candy becomes crisp once cooled.
⚠️ Tip: The mixture will darken slightly and thicken quickly—stay close and stir continuously to avoid burning.
Step 5: Finish with Flavor Boosters
Once the mixture hits 300°F (149°C), remove from heat immediately.
Quickly stir in:
- Butter
- Baking soda (this causes foaming and aerates the brittle)
- Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and just combined.
Step 6: Pour Into Pan
Working quickly before the mixture hardens, pour into the prepared 9×13-inch pan .
Use a heatproof spatula to spread it into an even layer.
You can tilt the pan or use a spoon to help shape the edges.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the brittle cool at room temperature for about 1 hour , or until completely hardened.
Once set, lift the brittle out using the parchment paper overhang.
Break into irregular pieces by hand or cut with a knife if you prefer uniform bites.
Tips for Success:
- 🔪 Work Fast: Once you add the baking soda, the mixture begins to harden—move quickly to the pan.
- 🧂 Salted Peanuts = Best Flavor: If using unsalted peanuts, sprinkle a pinch of salt into the mix.
- 🌡️ Use a Thermometer: For best results, use a candy thermometer—it’s essential for proper texture.
- ❄️ Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 🥣 Spice Level Control: Adjust jalapeño quantity or leave seeds in for more heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a spicy-sweet snack at parties or game nights.
- Great in lunchboxes or wrapped for teacher gifts or holiday treats.
- Pair with cold beer, coffee, or ice cream for a flavor contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 18–20 pieces):
(Approximate values per piece)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: ~3g (from peanuts)
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~6g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~13g
These Jalapeño Peanut Brittle candies are not just a snack—they’re an experience! Sweet, salty, crunchy, and with a slow-building kick of heat, they’re perfect for those who love to play with flavor contrasts.
So go ahead and make a batch today… because once you try them, you may never go back to regular peanut brittle again.
