🥜 The Classic Candy, Now 100% Plant-Based
Peanut brittle is one of those old-fashioned treats that never goes out of style. Crisp, sweet, and packed with roasted peanuts—it’s nostalgic candy at its finest. But traditionally, it’s made with butter or even milk, leaving many plant-based eaters wondering: “Is peanut brittle dairy free?”
Good news: it can be! This vegan peanut brittle recipe skips the butter and replaces it with a few clever swaps to give you that same snappy, caramelized crunch—completely dairy-free, egg-free, and animal-free.
Whether you’re vegan, dairy-intolerant, or just love a good homemade candy moment, this recipe will win you over.
🧾 Ingredients: Vegan Peanut Brittle Recipe
- 1 cup granulated cane sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup or agave
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or neutral oil (like avocado or sunflower)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups dry roasted, unsalted peanuts (or mixed nuts for a vegan nut brittle variation
👩🍳 Instructions: Vegan Peanut Brittle Recipe
1. Prep First—It Moves Fast
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Have your peanuts, baking soda, and vanilla measured and ready to go—you’ll need to act quickly once the sugar hits the right stage.
2. Boil the Sugar Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir to combine and cook over medium heat until it begins to boil. Attach a candy thermometer (if you have one) and let it cook undisturbed until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage)—this usually takes 10–12 minutes.
🔥 No thermometer? Look for a golden amber color and a strong caramel smell. Drop a bit into cold water—it should snap.
3. Stir in the Flavor
Remove from heat and immediately stir in vegan butter, vanilla, and baking soda. The mixture will bubble—this is what gives brittle its airy crunch!
4. Add the Nuts
Quickly fold in the peanuts (or your choice of nuts) and pour the mixture onto your prepared sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out as thin as possible.
5. Cool & Snap
Let the brittle cool completely (about 30 minutes), then break it into shards with your hands or a knife.
🌱 Why This Peanut Brittle is 100% Vegan
Traditional peanut brittle often contains butter, which is a no-go for dairy-free eaters. By swapping it for vegan butter or neutral oil, you still get that richness and gloss, without compromising ethics or digestion.
💬 Wondering “Is Crunchy Nut vegan?” It’s not! The store-bought cereal contains honey, sometimes dairy. This recipe is your fully vegan-friendly solution for a similar sweet crunch.
🛒 Chef’s Tips for the Best Vegan Peanut Brittle Recipe
- Use roasted, unsalted nuts to control the salt level and flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed chili flakes for a gourmet twist.
- Want a gluten-free version? This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
- Store brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
📚 More Sweet Vegan Treats
If you’re building a collection of handmade vegan desserts, don’t miss our Vegan Recipe Book Collection—perfect for anyone who loves to bake, gift, and impress with plant-based treats.
🌐 Craving Savory Too?
After all that sweetness, balance things out with a savory Mexican dish. Check out this brilliant vegan charro beans recipe—a smoky, hearty dish packed with protein and flavor. A must-try!
❓FAQ – Vegan Peanut Brittle Recipe
Is peanut brittle dairy free?
This version is! Traditional recipes may use butter, but we use vegan alternatives, making it completely dairy-free.
Can I make this vegan peanut brittle recipe without corn syrup?
Yes, you can sub with agave syrup or brown rice syrup. Just note that texture may vary slightly.
How long does vegan peanut brittle last?
Store in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Avoid humid conditions—moisture softens the brittle.
Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Try almonds, cashews, pecans, or even seeds for a unique vegan nut brittle version.
🥄 Final Word from the Chef
This vegan peanut brittle recipe hits all the right notes—crunchy, sweet, buttery (without butter!), and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for holiday gifts, dessert platters, or just because. Whether you’re making it for the first time or recreating childhood candy memories, this dairy-free treat won’t disappoint.
So grab your saucepan, and let’s make candy magic—vegan style.
