Peanut Brittle

Directions

1. 1
   Measure the vanilla into a small bowl and set aside.
2. 2
   Combine the baking soda and salt in another small bowl and set aside.
3. 3
   Butter 2 jelly roll pans or cookie sheets with sides liberally with the butter, using 1/2 stick butter on each one.
4. 4
   Set aside.
5. 5
   Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and 1/2 cup water in a large saucepan.
6. 6
   Bring the mixture to a boil, attach a candy thermometer, and cook over medium-high heat until the syrup spins a thread when poured from a spoon or reaches 240F on the thermometer.
7. 7
   Stir in the peanuts and continue cooking and stirring until the candy becomes golden brown or reaches 300F.
8. 8
   Remove from the heat immediately and quickly add the remaining 1 stick butter and the vanilla, baking soda, and salt.
9. 9
   Stir only until the butter melts, then quickly pour the brittle onto the cookie sheets, spreading the mixture thinly.
10. 10
    When the brittle has completely cooled, break the candy into pieces and store in a tightly covered container.
11. 11
    The syrup foams when the soda mixture is added.
12. 12
    The bubbles make this brittle very light.
13. 13
    Pour it up quickly to capture the air!