Shelled peanuts are much easier to use for peanut butter and baking recipes because you don’t need to remove their shells later. If making peanut butter, use Spanish peanuts, which have higher oil content. [1] X Research source If you wish, you can peel shelled peanuts’ skins off with your fingers before beginning, though it’s also easy to do this after roasting (see below). In-shell peanuts should be rinsed in cold water briefly to remove excess dirt. [2] X Research source Pat dry with a paper towel and allow to dry for about five extra minutes on a wire rack.
For easier clean-up, line the sheet with baking paper or foil. This isn’t required like it is with other recipes, however — the peanuts won’t stick to the tray.
For shelled peanuts, cook 15-20 minutes. For in-shell peanuts, cook 20-25 minutes.
Here’s another method for skinning peanuts: first, place the roasted peanuts in a jar or container and shake them or wrap them in a clean dish towel and rub them. Pour the peanuts out, then take the jar, container, or towel outside and let the wind blow away the loose skins.
A light dusting of brown sugar and cinnamon makes a delicious sweet treat. Combining Cajun seasoning mix with a little salt makes for intensely flavorful peanuts. Cayenne powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika can give you red-hot Southwestern-style peanuts. [4] X Research source
Here, again, there are hundreds of possibilities. One easy classic example is honey-roasted peanuts. To make the glaze, just combine equal parts honey and melted butter and stir until uniform. About two tablespoons of each ingredient should be enough for a pound of peanuts. Paint the peanuts with the glaze and sprinkle with salt before they go into the oven. Roast as normal. [5] X Research source
For chunky peanut butter, chop up a handful of peanuts and add them to the finished peanut butter. Some chefs like to add a dash of honey, molasses, salt, or other seasonings to their peanut butter for flavor. However, it should be fine on its own.
