Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your peanuts roast evenly and develop a lovely golden color.
Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent your peanuts from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly salted or unsalted roasted peanuts, light corn syrup, and light brown sugar. Stir everything together until the peanuts are well-coated. This is where the magic begins, and if you find it easier, using your hands slightly damp can help mix them thoroughly.
Next, sprinkle the flaky sea salt over the peanut mixture. Gently stir just a few times to incorporate the salt. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the salt to remain in little pockets for bursts of flavor.
Spread the peanut mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. It’s important to give them enough space to roast properly, so aim for a single layer.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. During this time, stir the peanuts two times to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color and a fragrant aroma.
Once they are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. As they cool, remember to break them apart gently to separate any clusters. This will create those irresistible bite-sized pieces.
After cooling completely, enjoy your Salt Roasted Candied Peanuts as a snack or use them in various dishes!
