Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies Recipe – A Homemade Candy Classic Worth Savoring

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Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies Recipe – A Homemade Candy Classic Worth Savoring

If you’ve ever tasted the nostalgic delight of Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies, then you already know the irresistible blend of sweet maple candy and roasted nuts is nothing short of legendary. With this homemade version of Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies, you can recreate the crunchy, creamy, and nutty perfection in your own kitchen—just in time for holidays, special occasions, or your next craving for something sweet and old-fashioned.

This recipe is remarkably easy to follow and comes together with a few pantry staples. The final result is a crisp maple coating wrapped lovingly around roasted nuts, perfect for gifting or enjoying one bite at a time.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Nut Goodies Recipe

  • Classic Taste – A homemade version that brings the nostalgic Brach’s flavor home.
  • Simple Ingredients – No artificial preservatives or additives—just pure, classic candy-making.
  • Customizable Nuts – Use peanuts, pecans, or almonds based on your preference.
  • Perfect Texture – Achieves that signature crunchy snap thanks to reaching the hard crack stage.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – A great candy for gifting, parties, or sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients for Homemade Maple Nut Goodies

To make about 30–40 pieces (depending on how you cut them), gather the following:

  • 1 cup maple syrup 🍁
    (Use real maple syrup for authentic flavor. Avoid artificial pancake syrup.)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar 🧂
  • 1 cup light corn syrup 🌽
  • ½ cup unsalted butter 🧈
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda 🥄
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 🍨
  • 2 cups roasted peanuts 🥜
    (You can substitute with pecans or almonds for variation.)

Optional:

  • Sea salt flakes for a sweet-salty finish
  • Maple extract (¼ tsp) for an intensified maple flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine Sugars and Syrups

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine:

  • 1 cup maple syrup
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup

Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

🔥 Candy-making tip: Use a candy thermometer for precise results. The texture of your finished candy depends on hitting the correct temperature.

Step 2: Boil to Hard Crack Stage

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, and do not stir. Let it cook until it reaches 300°F (149°C), the hard crack stage.

  • This may take 10–15 minutes, so be patient and monitor the temperature closely.
  • If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a bit of the mixture into cold water—it should harden instantly and snap when bent.

Step 3: Add Butter, Baking Soda, and Vanilla

Once the mixture hits 300°F, remove it from heat immediately.

Quickly stir in:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    (Add optional ¼ tsp maple extract for a flavor boost.)

The mixture will bubble vigorously—this is normal. Stir rapidly to incorporate the ingredients fully.

Step 4: Add the Nuts

Quickly stir in the 2 cups of roasted peanuts (or your choice of nuts) until they are fully coated in the candy mixture.

Step 5: Pour and Cool

Pour the hot candy mixture into a parchment-lined or greased 9×13-inch dish. Spread it out evenly.

Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Once the candy is firm, cut it into bite-sized squares or rustic chunks using a sharp knife.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Pro Tips for Maple Nut Candy Success

  • Use real maple syrup – It makes all the difference in flavor and authenticity.
  • Watch your thermometer – Reaching the hard crack stage ensures the candy sets properly.
  • Don’t over-stir during the boiling phase—only stir once all ingredients are added at the end.
  • Use roasted nuts – Raw nuts don’t have the depth of flavor needed for this candy.
  • Grease your knife – When cutting cooled candy, a greased knife or pizza cutter makes slicing easier.

Delicious Variations to Try

  • Maple-Pecan Clusters – Use pecan halves and drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper instead of using a dish.
  • Dark Chocolate Drizzle – Once the candy is set, melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the top.
  • Salted Maple Crunch – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the candy while it’s still warm.
  • Almond Crunch Bites – Swap peanuts for toasted almonds and add a dash of cinnamon.

Perfect for Holiday Gifting and Gatherings

These Maple Nut Goodies are visually appealing, rich in flavor, and easy to package in gift bags, candy tins, or mason jars. They’re especially ideal for:

  • Christmas and Thanksgiving trays
  • Homemade hostess gifts
  • Fall-themed party favors
  • Sweet snacks for road trips or picnics

Want to impress your guests or coworkers? Bring a tray of these homemade maple nut candies, and watch them disappear.

A Taste of Old-Fashioned Candy-Making at Its Best

Homemade Brach’s-style Maple Nut Goodies are more than just candy—they’re a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, filled with warmth, sweetness, and the unbeatable aroma of maple syrup and roasted nuts. Making them at home not only lets you control the ingredients but also fills your kitchen with the cozy scent of caramelizing sugar and toasted nuts—a reward in itself.

So grab your saucepan, your thermometer, and your sweet tooth—because this is one candy recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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