Peanut Butter Crunch Candy brings together the perfect combo of creamy peanut butter, crispy crunch, and a decadent chocolate topping for an irresistible treat.

Looking for more delightful homemade treats? Explore these simple recipes: Creamy Butter Mints, Golden Honeycomb Candy, or Fluffy Homemade Marshmallows.

Irresistible Peanut Butter Crunch Candy: A Homemade Delight for Any Occasion

Indulge in the nostalgic flavor and satisfying crunch of homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Candy. This recipe is a true holiday favorite, rivaling other delicious options like Sugar Cookie Snack Mix and Chocolate Covered Oreo Fudge. Imagine a candy with the delightful texture of a classic Butterfinger® bar – a brilliantly crispy and crunchy peanut butter base generously enrobed in a luscious layer of smooth, rich chocolate. The harmonious blend of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate creates an utterly addictive flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for more than just one piece. This homemade peanut butter candy isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, a perfect blend of sweet and salty, smooth and crunchy, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving.

Making this incredible candy is surprisingly straightforward, but for the best results, one essential tool cannot be stressed enough: a reliable candy thermometer. This crucial gadget is your guide to achieving the perfect sugar temperature, which is the secret behind the candy’s signature crisp texture. Without it, you risk wasting precious ingredients and ending up with a sticky, grainy, or overly hard confection. Investing in a good candy thermometer ensures precision and makes the entire process much more enjoyable and successful, guaranteeing that each batch of your homemade buttercrunch candy will be perfectly crisp and delicious.

Why Choose Homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Candy?

There’s an unparalleled joy in creating treats from scratch, and Peanut Butter Crunch Candy is no exception. Beyond the delicious outcome, making your own candy offers several advantages. You have complete control over the quality of ingredients, allowing you to choose your favorite brands of peanut butter and chocolate, and adjust the saltiness to your preference. Homemade versions often taste fresher and more vibrant than store-bought options, and the process itself can be a wonderfully rewarding experience. Plus, these dazzling bars make for impressive homemade gifts during the holidays, showcasing your culinary skills and thoughtfulness. Imagine the delight on friends’ and family’s faces as they bite into these perfect squares of peanut butter and chocolate bliss, knowing they were made with care in your own kitchen. The ability to customize ingredients and ensure freshness makes homemade buttercrunch a superior choice.

Furthermore, mastering a candy recipe like this builds confidence in the kitchen. It’s a great way to explore the science of baking and cooking, understanding how different ingredients react to heat and how precision can lead to spectacular results. The crispy texture of this peanut butter crunch candy is a testament to careful technique, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be eager to try other homemade treats. This recipe not only delivers incredible flavor but also offers a fun and educational culinary journey.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Crunch Candy

Crafting the perfect Peanut Butter Crunch Candy relies on a few key ingredients. Each plays a vital role in achieving that sought-after texture and balanced flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component is important for creating the best homemade peanut butter candy:

• Peanut Butter: For an extra layer of texture and delightful crunch, I highly recommend using a super chunk or extra crunchy peanut butter, like Skippy’s® Super Chunk. The small peanut pieces add to the overall “crunch” factor of the candy base, enhancing the Butterfinger-like experience. If you prefer a smoother texture, a creamy peanut butter will work just as well, though you might lose some of that satisfying bite.
• Unsalted Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter when making candy. This gives you precise control over the overall saltiness of your final product. Different peanut butter brands vary in their sodium content, and unsalted butter allows you to adjust the added salt accordingly, ensuring your peanut butter crunch candy is perfectly balanced in flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial to balance the sweetness and enhance the rich, nutty peanut butter flavor. Start with the recommended amount and adjust based on the inherent saltiness of your chosen peanut butter. If your peanut butter is very salty, you might reduce the added salt; conversely, if it’s bland, a little extra salt can elevate the taste. This small addition makes a big difference in rounding out the overall taste profile.
• Vanilla Extract: Added after heating the peanut butter mixture, vanilla extract provides a warm, aromatic depth that complements both the peanut butter and chocolate. Adding it later helps preserve its delicate flavor, which can diminish if heated for too long. High-quality vanilla can transform a good candy into a truly exceptional one.
• Granulated Sugar: Regular white granulated sugar is the backbone of this candy. It provides the necessary sweetness and, when cooked to the correct temperature, forms the hard, brittle base characteristic of crunch candy. Ensure you use standard granulated sugar for optimal results.
• Light Corn Syrup: This ingredient is a candy maker’s best friend. Corn syrup is essential for preventing sugar crystallization, which can make your candy grainy and unpleasant. It ensures a smooth, glossy, and perfectly textured brittle, giving your peanut butter crunch its desired snap.
• Water: A small amount of water helps dissolve the sugar and corn syrup evenly at the beginning of the cooking process, allowing the mixture to reach the desired temperature smoothly without burning. It acts as a medium for the sugar to melt consistently.
• Baking Soda: This is the magical ingredient that gives the candy its airy, crispy, and brittle texture. When added to the hot sugar syrup, it reacts to create tiny air bubbles, resulting in that delightful “crunch” that makes this candy so special. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best leavening action; old baking soda might not react as vigorously.
• Dark Chocolate: A good quality dark chocolate provides a rich, slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweet peanut butter crunch. Chopping it finely helps it melt more evenly and quickly. Proper melting (tempering in stages) is key for a beautiful, shiny, and snap-able chocolate topping. You can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, but dark chocolate offers a more sophisticated balance.
• Coconut Oil: Adding a touch of coconut oil (or shortening) to the chocolate helps it melt smoothly, makes it easier to spread, and gives it a lovely, glossy finish once set. It also helps the chocolate harden more quickly and maintains its sheen, enhancing the visual appeal of your homemade buttercrunch candy.

The Indispensable Candy Thermometer: Your Key to Candy-Making Success

As mentioned, a candy thermometer isn’t just a suggestion for Peanut Butter Crunch Candy; it’s an absolute necessity for achieving that perfect, shatteringly crisp texture. Candy making is a science, and temperature is the most critical variable. Without precise temperature control, your sugar syrup can either be undercooked (resulting in a sticky, chewy mess that won’t set) or overcooked (leading to a burnt, bitter, and overly hard candy that’s difficult to eat). A candy thermometer takes all the guesswork out of the process, ensuring your syrup reaches the exact “hard crack” stage (or just before it) required for brittle, delivering that authentic, satisfying crunch.

To guarantee accuracy, it’s wise to calibrate your candy thermometer regularly. This simple step involves placing the thermometer in boiling water; it should read 212°F (100°C) at sea level. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to adjust your target temperature accordingly. For instance, if your thermometer reads 210°F in boiling water, then for this recipe’s 285°F target, you would aim for 283°F. This small calibration can make a huge difference in your candy’s consistency and overall success. Don’t skip this crucial step, as it ensures your homemade peanut butter crunch candy will turn out perfectly every time.

Different types of candy thermometers are available, from traditional glass tube thermometers to digital probes. Whichever you choose, ensure it can withstand high temperatures and is easy to read. Investing in a good quality thermometer is a small price to pay for consistent, professional-grade results in your candy making endeavors. It truly is the secret weapon for any aspiring home confectioner, especially when tackling brittle-style candies like this delicious buttercrunch.

How To Make Delicious Peanut Butter Crunch Candy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to create this mouth-watering treat? Follow these detailed steps for crafting the perfect homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Candy. Precision and speed are your allies in this recipe:

1. Prepare Your Pan & Tools: Start by thoroughly lining a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Ensure the paper extends generously beyond the edges of the pan to create an overhang; this will act as “handles” for easy removal of the cooled candy later, preventing any sticky situations. Having a well-prepared pan ensures your candy won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Measure out all your ingredients and have them ready. Keep a heat-resistant silicone spatula, a sturdy whisk, and your calibrated candy thermometer within arm’s reach near your stovetop. In a small bowl, sift the baking soda through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate any lumps, and set it aside. This proactive preparation, often called “mise en place,” is crucial for candy making.
2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the specified amount of peanut butter, unsalted butter, and salt. Microwave this mixture in short 20-second intervals, stirring well after each burst, until it becomes soft, creamy, and easily pourable. The goal is a smooth, homogenous blend. Once it reaches this consistency, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Transfer this warm, aromatic peanut butter mixture to a large heat-resistant bowl and keep it close to your stovetop – speed is key in the next steps as the hot sugar syrup will be added directly to it.
3. Cook the Sugar Syrup to Perfection: In a nonstick, heavy-bottomed pot (this type of pot helps prevent burning), combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir gently only until all the sugar is moistened, being careful not to splash sugar crystals onto the sides of the pot. Sugar crystals on the side can cause the entire batch to crystallize and become grainy. Attach your calibrated candy thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring the bulb is submerged in the syrup but not touching the bottom of the pot. Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Cook without stirring, constantly monitoring the candy thermometer, until the syrup reaches precisely 285°F (140°C). This is a critical stage – it’s often called “soft crack,” and hitting this exact temperature is paramount for the candy’s signature crisp texture. Watch carefully, as the temperature can rise rapidly once it gets close to the target.
4. Incorporate Baking Soda and Combine: As soon as your sugar syrup hits 285°F, immediately remove the pot from the heat. Without delay, vigorously whisk in the sifted baking soda. The syrup will instantly foam up, expand dramatically, and turn a lighter color – this is exactly what you want, as it creates the airy, brittle texture by introducing tiny air bubbles. Immediately pour this foamy, lightened syrup into the large bowl containing your prepared peanut butter mixture.
5. Fold and Cool Down: Quickly switch to a heat-resistant silicone spatula and swiftly begin to fold the peanut butter mixture into the hot, foamy syrup. Work with urgency and decisiveness, as the mixture will begin to thicken and become solid very quickly due to the rapid cooling. Once thoroughly combined into a cohesive mass, immediately transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking pan. Using the spatula, quickly spread it evenly to a thickness of about 1 inch. Don’t worry if it doesn’t perfectly fill the entire pan; the goal is consistent thickness for even cooling. Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature for 3 to 5 hours, or until it is firm and fully set. Resist the urge to refrigerate, as rapid cooling can affect the final brittle texture and make it sticky.
6. Prepare and Add Chocolate Topping: Once the peanut butter crunch is fully cooled and firm, it’s time for the chocolate layer. Finely chop your dark chocolate bar into small, uniform pieces. Place about two-thirds of the chopped chocolate into a clean, dry microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly for 30 seconds after each burst, until the chocolate is mostly melted and smooth. Then, add the remaining one-third of chopped chocolate to the melted chocolate and stir continuously until all the chocolate is melted and smooth. This method, often called “seeding” or “tempering,” helps to create a glossy, stable chocolate topping that won’t bloom (develop grey streaks) and will have a satisfying snap when broken. Stir in the coconut oil for extra shine and smooth consistency, making it easier to spread.
7. Finish and Enjoy: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the cooled peanut butter crunch layer in the pan. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread it to create a smooth, even topping across the entire surface. Allow the buttercrunch to stand at room temperature for at least another hour, or until the chocolate topping is completely set and firm. Once hardened, use the parchment-paper overhang to gently lift the entire slab of candy from the pan. Place it on a sturdy cutting board. With a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the candy into desired squares or bars. The sharper the knife, the cleaner the cuts. Serve immediately and savor every crunchy, chocolatey bite of your homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Candy!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Crunch Candy Success

Making candy can be a rewarding experience, and with these expert tips, you’ll master Peanut Butter Crunch Candy in no time:

• Patience and Practice are Key: Candy making is an art that improves with practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Learning to recognize the right consistency and how quickly temperatures change takes time. Be patient with yourself and try a few times before planning to share your creations. Each attempt is a learning opportunity that will hone your skills and lead to better homemade peanut butter candy.
• Mise en Place is Essential (Get Everything Ready First): Candy making requires your undivided attention, especially when sugar syrup is boiling. Temperatures can escalate rapidly from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds. Before you even turn on the stove, ensure all your ingredients are measured out, your pan is lined, and your tools (whisk, spatula, thermometer) are within arm’s reach. This proactive preparation, known as “mise en place,” will make the process much smoother, reduce the chances of errors, and allow you to react quickly to temperature changes.
• Watch That Thermometer Closely: While the candy thermometer might seem to move slowly at first, the syrup’s temperature can climb very quickly, particularly in the final stages. Do not walk away from the stovetop. Stay focused and pay constant attention to the thermometer to hit that precise 285°F target. Overheating by even a few degrees can drastically alter the texture and flavor, resulting in a burnt taste or an overly hard brittle. Underheating will leave it sticky and soft.
• Line Your Pan Reliably: Using parchment paper to line your baking pan is non-negotiable for this recipe. It prevents the sticky candy from adhering to the pan and allows for effortless removal once cooled. Make sure the parchment paper overhangs the sides; these “wings” will be invaluable for lifting the entire slab of candy out for cutting without damaging it.
• Humidity Matters: Be aware that humidity can significantly impact candy making. On high-humidity days, sugar syrup is more likely to absorb moisture from the air, potentially making your candy sticky or soft, and preventing it from setting properly. If you live in a humid climate, consider making candy on drier days or using a dehumidifier in your kitchen to create a more favorable environment.
• Chopping Chocolate Matters: When melting chocolate, especially for tempering, finely chopping it into small, uniform pieces is crucial. Smaller pieces melt more evenly and quickly, which helps in achieving a smooth, tempered chocolate topping without lumps or seizing. This technique ensures a professional-looking, glossy chocolate layer.
• Clean Utensils are a Must: Any stray sugar crystals from prior use can trigger crystallization in your sugar syrup, leading to a grainy candy. Ensure your pot, spatula, and whisk are impeccably clean before you begin the cooking process.
• Avoid Stirring When Boiling: Once the sugar, corn syrup, and water mixture comes to a boil, resist the urge to stir. Stirring while boiling can cause sugar crystals to form on the sides of the pan, which can then fall back into the syrup and initiate crystallization throughout, leading to a grainy texture.

More Delicious Homemade Desserts to Explore

If you loved making this Peanut Butter Crunch Candy, you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic homemade dessert recipes. Each offers a unique flavor and texture, perfect for expanding your repertoire of sweet treats:

• Easy 3-Ingredient Turtle Candy: A quick and decadent treat combining crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. This simple recipe proves that amazing flavor doesn’t require complex steps.
• Festive Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Soft, chewy sugar cookies topped with a creamy, refreshing peppermint frosting. These are perfect for holiday celebrations, offering a cool, minty twist on a classic.
• Classic Apple Pie with Homemade Crust: Indulge in a timeless favorite featuring tender, spiced apples baked in a flaky, buttery homemade pie crust. This recipe is a comforting taste of tradition, perfect for any season.
• Decadent Brownie Batter Dessert Cheese Ball: A sweet and creamy cheese ball that tastes just like rich brownie batter, mixed with chocolate chips and served with dippers. It’s an ideal, crowd-pleasing dessert for parties and gatherings.
• Addictive Chocolate Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies: A classic snack mix featuring crunchy cereal coated in a delicious chocolate and peanut butter blend, then dusted with powdered sugar. This easy-to-make treat is incredibly addictive and perfect for movie nights.

Peanut Butter Crunch Candy Recipe

Buttercrunch Candy

By Chelsea Lords

Buttercrunch is a delicious peanut butter candy with a rich chocolate topping, offering an irresistible combination of crispy texture and creamy flavor. This homemade treat is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for sharing!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Setting Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes

Servings: 16 bars

Equipment

• 9 x 9-inch baking pan (lined with parchment paper)
• Medium nonstick pot
• Candy thermometer
• Heat-resistant silicone spatula
• Whisk
• Large heat-resistant bowl
• Small microwave-safe bowl
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Sharp chef’s knife

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups peanut butter (super chunk or extra crunchy recommended for best texture)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (see Recipe Notes for adjustments based on peanut butter brand)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup light corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it’s fresh for optimal leavening and crunch)
• 1 (3.5-ounce) bar dark chocolate (high-quality dark chocolate for a rich topping)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening (for a glossy, smooth chocolate topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan & Tools: Line a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang on all sides for easy removal. Have all ingredients measured and ready, along with a heat-resistant silicone spatula, whisk, and calibrated candy thermometer near the stovetop. Sift baking soda into a small bowl and set aside.
2. Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter, unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring well after each, until smooth and pourable. Stir in vanilla extract. Transfer this mixture to a large heat-resistant bowl.
3. Cook the Sugar Syrup to Perfection: In a nonstick, heavy-bottomed pot, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons water. Stir gently until sugar is moistened, avoiding splashing sides. Attach your candy thermometer, ensuring it’s submerged but not touching the bottom. Heat over high heat without stirring until the syrup reaches exactly 285°F (140°C). Monitor closely as temperature can rise rapidly.
4. Add Baking Soda & Combine: Immediately remove the pot from heat once 285°F is reached. Vigorously whisk in the sifted baking soda; the syrup will foam up and expand significantly, creating the airy texture. Immediately pour the foamy syrup into the large bowl with the peanut butter mixture.
5. Fold and Spread: Quickly switch to a heat-resistant spatula and swiftly fold the peanut butter mixture into the hot, aerated syrup. Work fast, as the candy will thicken rapidly. Transfer the combined mixture to your prepared pan and spread evenly to about 1 inch thick. Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature for 3 to 5 hours, or until fully set and hard. Do not refrigerate.
6. Prepare Chocolate Topping: Once the peanut butter crunch is firm, finely chop the dark chocolate. Place about two-thirds of the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring for 30 seconds after each, until mostly melted. Add the remaining one-third chopped chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth. This “seeding” method helps temper the chocolate for a shiny, non-streaky finish. Stir in the coconut oil until blended.
7. Apply Chocolate & Cut: Evenly spread the melted chocolate over the cooled peanut butter crunch layer in the pan. Let stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is completely set. Use the parchment-paper overhang to lift the candy slab from the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into desired squares or bars with a sharp chef’s knife. Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Candy!

Recipe Notes

Nutrition