January 26th is peanut brittle day and here are some facts about this holiday. Brittle is a type of hard sugar candy with that is broken into flat pieces. It is unclear when this sweet treat was started, but most accept that it originated in the United States. Several written accounts state that this confection was created by mistake. In the 19th century, a New England woman was making taffy and instead of adding cream of tartar, she accidently put baking soda in the mixture instead. This created a hard sugary substance that was later known as brittle. This candy quickly took off and now has many different variations. The basic ingredients and methods for making brittle have remained the same.
According to All Recipes, a basic peanut brittle recipe calls for a white sugar, corn syrup, salt, water, peanuts, butter, and baking soda. Water, sugar, corn syrup, and salt are boiled until the sugar dissolves and makes a caramel-like sauce. The peanuts are added and the mixture is stirred until the temperature reaches 300 degrees F or 150 degrees C. The pot is removed from heat and the butter and baking soda are stirred in. The mixture is evenly spread on onto baking sheets. Once it has cooled, the brittle is smashed or chopped into smaller pieces.
Did you know that $68.5billion CEO, Warren Buffett claims that Coke, fudge, and peanut brittle are his secret to a long life and has no intention of switching to a healthier diet?
This candy is often associated with Christmastime, but this treat is great year-round. Buchheit retail stores sell three different types of traditional brittle: peanut, pecan, and salted caramel. This brittle is made by Incredible Edibles LLC., located in Perryville, Missouri. Owner Bonnie Hanson has been making brittle for over five years and makes thirteen unique flavors. Supply is limited, so get them while they last!
We also carry Shelia G’s brownie brittle. In 1992, Shelia’s brownie recipe was renowned and she was fond of the crispy brownie edges. She found that the edges had the rich chocolaty flavor, but with a crunch. Shelia discovered how to perfect pans of crunchy thin brownies and thus, brownie brittle snacks were created! We have salted caramel, chocolate chip, and toffee crunch brownie brittle. Stop by your local Buchheit store to check out our wide variety of candy, candy making supplies, and the delicious brittles!
Hope you have a sweet Peanut Brittle Day!
