If you love the classic crunchy sweetness of brittle but crave a spicy kick that awakens your taste buds, then this Jalapeño Peanut Brittle recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Combining the rich nuttiness of peanuts with the fiery warmth of fresh jalapeños, this brittle balances sweet and heat in a way that is both surprising and addictive. Each bite offers the perfect crunch followed by a subtle burst of spice that lingers delightfully, making Jalapeño Peanut Brittle an irresistible snack or gift to share with friends who appreciate bold flavors.

Jalapeño Peanut Brittle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully straightforward, using simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Each component has a role to play: sugars create that iconic brittle crunch, peanuts bring texture and earthiness, and jalapeños add a spicy note that wakes up your palate.

Granulated sugar (1 cup): The backbone of the brittle, it caramelizes to provide that golden, glassy crunch.
Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Helps prevent crystallization and keeps the brittle smooth and glossy.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a slight creamy flavor to balance the heat.
Raw peanuts (1 cup): Roasting them beforehand intensifies their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
Jalapeños, finely chopped (1-2): Fresh heat with the option to adjust by removing seeds; key to giving this brittle its signature spicy punch.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Creates tiny bubbles that lighten the brittle’s texture and make it easier to bite.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances sweetness and balances the spice from the jalapeños perfectly.
Cooking spray: Essential for greasing the parchment to ensure easy release of the brittle after it’s set.

How to Make Jalapeño Peanut Brittle

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, then lightly spray it with cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze later on.

Step 2: Melt and Mix the Sugars and Butter

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and butter. Stir continuously until the butter has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and well integrated — this ensures even caramelization as it heats.

Step 3: Heat to the Hard Crack Stage

Bring the mixture to a steady boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully until it hits 300°F, the perfect hard crack stage. This is what will give your Jalapeño Peanut Brittle that signature crisp snap.

Step 4: Add Peanuts and Jalapeños

Once your sugar syrup reaches the right temperature, quickly stir in the raw peanuts and finely chopped jalapeños. Mixing them in swiftly helps to evenly coat the nuts and distribute the fiery jalapeño bits throughout the brittle.

Step 5: Finish with Baking Soda and Salt

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the baking soda and salt. Be prepared as the mixture will bubble up energetically — this reaction aerates the brittle and is what creates its light, crisp texture.

Step 6: Spread and Cool

Pour the bubbling brittle onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer before it sets. Then let it cool completely for about 20 minutes to harden into perfect shards.

Step 7: Break into Pieces and Enjoy

When the Jalapeño Peanut Brittle is fully cooled and firm, break it into bite-sized pieces using a knife or your hands. Now you’re ready to savor the unique combination of sweet, spicy, and nutty goodness.

How to Serve Jalapeño Peanut Brittle

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. You could also add a few toasted sesame seeds for a subtle twist in texture and taste that pairs beautifully with the heat.

Side Dishes

Jalapeño Peanut Brittle complements a cheese platter exceptionally well. Pair it with creamy cheeses like Brie or goat cheese to balance the spicy-sweet notes. It also makes a fantastic snack alongside a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a sharp IPA beer, whose effervescence offsets the heat.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting or entertaining, arrange pieces of Jalapeño Peanut Brittle in decorative jars tied with rustic twine or colorful cellophane bags. You might also crush smaller bits over vanilla ice cream or drizzle melted brittle over chocolate bark for inventive dessert enhancements.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Jalapeño Peanut Brittle will keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keep it away from moisture to maintain its crisp texture and intense flavors.

Freezing

Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Jalapeño Peanut Brittle for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag to protect from freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Generally, brittle does not require reheating, but if pieces soften, you can gently warm them in a low oven (about 200°F) for a few minutes to restore crunch without melting.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spice level in Jalapeño Peanut Brittle?

Absolutely. Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños reduces the heat significantly, while using more or less jalapeño can tailor the spicy kick to your preference.

Are raw peanuts necessary, or can I use roasted ones?

Raw peanuts are recommended because they roast slightly as the brittle cooks, providing fresh, nutty flavors. However, pre-roasted peanuts can also be used if you prefer a deeper roasted taste.

What makes the brittle become hard and crunchy?

The key is cooking the sugar mixture to the hard crack stage at 300°F. This precise temperature ensures the candy sets into a firm and crunchy texture once cooled.

Why do I add baking soda to the brittle?

Baking soda creates tiny bubbles in the hot sugar mixture, aerating the brittle and giving it a lighter, less dense crunch, which makes it easier to bite and enjoy.

Can I substitute jalapeños with other peppers?

Yes, you can experiment with other peppers like serrano or even milder ones like poblano, adjusting the amount to achieve a desired spice level without overpowering the peanut flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both nostalgic and boldly refreshing, Jalapeño Peanut Brittle is a must-try. Its blend of sweet, crunchy, and spicy elements offers a delightful palate adventure that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own. With easy ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe invites you to bring a little excitement to your classic candy repertoire. Dive in and treat yourself to the magic of Jalapeño Peanut Brittle!

Jalapeño Peanut Brittle Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 12 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 30 pieces 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Jalapeño Peanut Brittle recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy with crunchy roasted peanuts and a kick of fresh jalapeños embedded in classic peanut brittle. A delightful twist on a traditional candy that combines the sweetness of caramelized sugar with the heat of jalapeños, perfect for adventurous snack lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Syrup Base

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup unsalted butter

Mix-ins

1 cup raw peanuts (roasted for 5 minutes for added flavor)
1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for milder heat)

Leavening and Seasoning

1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Others

1 spray cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it using cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set this aside to use later.
Combine Base Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until all the butter melts and the mixture is completely smooth without any graininess.
Cook to Hard Crack Stage: Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring afterwards and monitor the temperature with a candy thermometer. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 300°F, which takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, indicating the hard crack stage essential for brittle texture.
Add Peanuts and Jalapeños: At the precise temperature, quickly stir in the roasted raw peanuts and finely chopped jalapeños to coat them evenly with the hot syrup mixture.
Add Baking Soda and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and rapidly mix in the baking soda and salt. This will cause bubbling and foaming, which aerates the brittle and gives it a light texture. Be cautious during this process.
Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the bubbling mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it into an even, thin layer for uniform cooling and candy formation.
Cool and Break: Allow the peanut brittle to cool completely at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Once hardened, break it into bite-sized pieces using a knife or your hands for serving and storage.

Notes

Removing jalapeño seeds reduces heat, so adjust according to your spice preference.
Roasting peanuts prior to adding enhances their flavor and crunch.
Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature control to avoid under or overcooking the brittle.
Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp.
Exercise caution when handling hot sugar syrup to prevent burns.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Candy
Method: Stovetop Candy Making
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 15g)
Calories: 90
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: jalapeño peanut brittle, spicy peanut brittle, homemade candy, sweet and spicy brittle, peanut brittle recipe