Easy Candied Peanuts Recipe

With the holidays just slightly behind us and New Years Eve quickly approaching I'm inclined to think that "budget" is one of the first things that come to mind, especially when planning out a menu or snacks to serve up.  

These candied peanuts are easy (I'm talkin' like 20 minutes, minus cooling time, to whip together), budget friendly and man-pleasin' – Let's get started! 

You Will Need
1.5 Cups of Peanuts (plain, unsalted)
1/2 Tbsp of Butter (or margarine)
2.5 Tbsp White Sugar
2.5 Tbsp Brown Sugar
3.5 Tbsp of Water
2 tsp Vanilla

Begin
Preheat oven to 350°
Spray a cookie sheet

Next,
In a pot, on medium low melt together the white sugar, brown sugar and the water.  When mixture starts to come to a boil, add 1 tsp of Vanilla and 1/2 Tbsp of Butter.  Slowly allow mixture to come to a full boil (careful not to burn!!), now add in the 1.5 cups of Peanuts.

Stir continuously, making sure all peanuts are coated and until mixture starts to thicken. 
The mixture will get harder to stir, but keep going!

Keep the temperature on medium low, as not to burn the sugar.
After a few minutes the sugars will subtly start to crystallize on the peanuts.

Remove from heat and add the last 1 tsp of Vanilla – Mix well.

Spread peanuts onto your sprayed cookie sheet and bake for 3 minutes

After 3 minutes, flip peanuts and return to oven for an additional 3 minutes (You are looking for a melty, crispy caramelization on both sides!)

…And Voila!  Your peanuts are done – Easy huh?

*NOTE: 6 minutes should be just the perfect amount of time to allow the sugars to harden without burning – If you feel you need more time…Return to oven, but watch peanuts very carefully!

Allow peanuts to cool for at least 30 minutes.  ENJOY!